By Isaac Siegemund-Broka
Web Entertainment Editor
The Republic Tigers combine classic indie pop and folk elements into a coherent, but unremarkable, jumble of songs on the “No Land’s Man” EP. Despite its lack of uniqueness, “No Land’s Man’s” energetic vibes mark it as a pleasant addition to the Republic Tigers’ repertoire.
“Merrymake It With Me” opens the EP with a haunting and airy swell, followed by tense minor guitar work. This tension quickly melts away into a soothing Shins-esque folk piece. The song escalates with the entrance of slight electronica bits and fun guitar jabs, and a peppy chorus of vocal interplay and bouncier drums rounds out the track.
“The Infidel” is very similar to “Merrymake It With Me” at track two, but it distinguishes itself with more prominent background vocal melodies. “The Infidel” finds its greatest strength in lyrics, with frontman Ken Jankowski sadly crooning lyrics like “now I know when the lighting will break, because it all starts to ache before the clouds are in view.”
An old-fashioned organ opens the third song on the EP, “Lonely As I Was,” but soon gives way to a lively and vaguely discontented song, featuring playful vocal lines and a background accordion.
The Republic Tigers experiment with a groovy pulse on “The Nerve,” the final song on “No Land’s Man.” This energetic track lacks melody, but makes up for it with uncommon vocal rhythms and driving instrumentals.
“No Land’s Man” is a solid blend of indie alternative vigor and folksy beauty. Although the EP lacks the innovation that The Republic Tigers are capable of, it is undoubtedly a triumph for band.
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