Los Angeles – Loud, explosive, and full of confidence are some of the ways to describe the new EP, Howl from Templeton, California band Night Riots. The five-piece outfit, which includes Travis Hawley (vocals), Nick Fotinakes (guitar), Matt DePauw (guitar), Mikel Van Kranenburg (bass), and Rico Rodriguez (drums) power up a particular sound that echoes both 80s and modern rock. After numerous singles and a self-released EP, Young Lore, Night Riots now find themselves on Sumerian Records for their latest EP. The production values are obviously higher here, but the band doesn’t stray away from their original sound. Hawley specializes in octane vocals, the drums from Rodriguez are heart pounding fast and guitar work is precision sharp. Howl is a six-track collection of infectious jams that doesn’t just push the envelope but bulldozes through it. Night Riots have positioned themselves nicely in the mix of indie pop, but prove to have more vigor and drive than others in the genre.

Howl is introduced with the song, “Oh My Heart.” It bursts with boundless energy and guitar riffs that cut straight through the heart. Hawley sings with a self-assurance found within seasoned veterans. The opener attracts the listener into desiring more. Night Riots delivers on this initial promise in a non-generic sort of way. Subsequent track “Contagious” has big, bold choruses performed in such a spectacular fashion. It’s the type of anthem-driven song that convinces the listener Night Riots are meant for greater horizons.  The title couldn’t be more apt since their sound is undeniably contagious. “Holsters” is the band’s reflective endeavor. It has that looking back at another time and place feeling attached to it. It’s quite different in tone and delivery than the first two tracks because Hawley is singing with much more persuasion. It also suggests that he’s even convincing himself to “learn to live it again, don’t let it take you, it’s all that we have to keep rising.”

“Break” slows the tempo up just ever so slightly with its retro sound. It resonates the sounds of the 80s synth pop era, but with vocals that are ever so current for the times. Night Riots have an exceptional way of breathing new life into a familiar rhapsody. The gleefully delightful tune could be deemed something of a guilty pleasure, with a heavy emphasis on pleasure for the listener’s ears. “Follow You” is a highlight. It’s the closing track to what has been a seemingly perfect EP. Hawley showcases effective but blatant lyrics throughout the song. With the 80s bass supplied by Kranenburg, this song is soaked in a LA nightlife kind of living. After listening to these six songs, I’m anxiously waiting to hear what their debut full-length will offer. The quintet hits all the key points in indie-pop/indie-rock. With Howl, Night Riots balance modern rock with 80s pop, display a deep certitude in vocal arrangements, and craft a complete overall vibe that lets one become profusely passionate from beginning to end.

Howl will be released on January 20 via Sumerian Records. Check out Night Riots’ Facebook for more information about their upcoming west coast dates.

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Sean Kayden

His father has always been an avid fan of 70s and 80s artists. He introduced Sean at an early age to the likes of many rock groups of that era. In the late 90s, Sean acquired a fondness for the likes of such alternative bands as Smashing Pumpkins, Goo Goo Dolls, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. In high school, he gravitated towards artists like Brand New, Saves The Day, and Fall Out Boy. As Sean entered California State University Fullerton, where he earned his BA in Radio/TV/Film, his music taste expanded to the realm of Broken Social Scene, The National, and Death Cab For Cutie. For as long as Sean can remember, he has always had the desire of launching his own stories that would someday be presented through television, film, and print. This form of expression continuously uplifts his spirit. Sean is a certified TRX fitness trainer and teaches group classes as well.

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