While I don’t like to simplify things too much, Minneapolis band Kill to Kill sound like a heavier version of the early Yeah Yeah Yeahs mixed in with the noisy pop of Sonic Youth. Part of the heaviness comes from the fact that the band shuns having a regular six string guitar in the band in favor of a bass and baritone guitar set up that, in conjunction with some forceful drumming, really draws out the music’s low end. Lead singer Sylvia Izabella fronts the band with her sweet yet straining vocals that serve as an exciting contrast to the band’s darker sound. While there are some better “songs” on Fighter, namely the great “Sugar Sugar” and “Hater,” the band’s sound is best encapsulated by the scorching near instrumental song “Cliffhanger.” The track features buzz-saw guitars and Izabella’s searing yelps punctuating the breaks in the song. While “Cliffhanger” doesn’t show her great singing as well as other songs on Fighter, it best represents the unbridled energy and powerful sound the band has created on their debut for local label Guilt Ridden Pop. The disc is a short—about 20 minutes—but strong statement that is sure to draw them some well earned attention from the local music scene.

[Kill to Kill will be celebrating the release of Fighter tonight with two other outstanding local bands, Gospel Gossip and Red Pens, with a free show tonight at the Hexagon Bar.]

Kill to Kill “Cliffhanger” (mp3)

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