Smash It Up!

Featuring the lead singer of punk icons the Refused, and following only months on the heels of their critically acclaimed Survival Sickness LP, the (International) Noise Conspiracy attempted to keep opinions high with the release of this EP. Featuring the mod rock, Rocket From the Crypt-inspired "Smash It Up" as its centerpiece, the (International) Noise Conspiracy show off their ability to write a top-notch hook while still experimenting with dirty guitar tones and shaky rhythms. "Inner City Rejects," the first of two unreleased tracks that round out the disc, is a crusty Paul Weller/Jam-styled rocker with some nice little guitar breaks that give the song a bit of necessary variety. "Sleeping Pills," on the other hand, is a straightforward distortion-fueled burst of energy propelled with a mildly staccato drum track, an approach that makes an adequately strong impression over its short duration. Also included on the disc is the group's video for "Smash It Up." The clip itself is enough to make the band even more endearing; it features a heartfelt tribute to such influences and political revolutionaries as the Clash, along with some winning footage of the group in action. ~ Peter J. D'Angelo, Rovi