polaroids of androids

Much like their live show, which sees each member swap instruments at least 153 times, Ghosts Of Television's latest EP is a chaotic and morphing journey. Across the four tracks the band change direction at every opportunity, mixing influences and ideas in a beautiful, natural way. This isn't as disjointed or confused in it's direction as it sounds, but rather shows off a band that isn't afraid to muddle things up and get lost within their own sound as they continually change the location of the goal posts, the rules of their own game and their preferred method of attack.

The EP is kicked off by the title track, which sees the band put an atmospheric twist on a trademark, rhythm-heavy arrangements. The dream-like style makes it the band's most creatively layered song to date, with sounds injecting themselves into the mix at random occasions and the vocals falling behind the vibrant drum backing.

The second track, the previously released, City Of Painless Childbirth, is pretty much impossible to describe. It sometimes gives off a chest-thumping, aggressive vibe, while on the very next listen can come across as some sort of futuristic theatrical pop masterpiece.

Jubilation is a tragic love story of death, lust and possibly even the problems of organised religion. It's the kind of song you play late at night to try and uncover.

The highlight of the release and quite possibly their finest moment to date, Buzzrd, sees the band shoot off into chaotic punk territory. Powered by a forceful - almost macho - guitar riff, the song encapsulates the group's skill of melting their forever-changing scope with frantic, emotive vocals to create a lovely mess of start-stop battles between instruments. A fantastic way to close out the EP.

This sounds like nothing else on the current Australian music landscape. That alone isn't enough to enjoy it, but the undeniably artistic and carefree delivery surely is. These guys literally throw music at you, and, if you are lucky enough, it sticks to your head, rattles around inside your brain for a while and then drags you right into their world. If you don't catch it, then that's your loss. It's this persistent attitude that ensures Ghosts Of Television keep us longing for a full length release.