7/10

Over these last few years, emerging outfit Shaven Primates have defined themselves with a multitude of varied concepts and pursuits. Largely aligning themselves with the rollicking classic rock sound of yesteryear, the band's efforts have looked to explore a more immersive avenue with their lyrics, with 'Birds Aren't Real' covering alternative thinking, and 'Child Of Dirt' venturing towards childhood trauma and addiction. And with their profile continuing to grow right now, they are back with their latest anthemic EP 'Chasing The Dragon', a collection that sees them hone on the multifaceted ideals of desire and pleasure.

Much like what their previous releases have looked to create, 'Chasing The Dragon' makes for this wildly absorbing and diverse listen as it plays. Despite just three tracks in length, the EP takes us on this vibrant journey across a wide spectrum of genres and textures. Whether they are bringing back those bold and driven riffs for 'Airwaves' or delivering a more groove-laden pace with their cover of Kate Bush's 'Babooshka', Shaven Primates always manage to find a strong and captivating backbone in which to develop, making for one of their more intriguing releases to date.

It has certainly been a great time for innovation and self-discovery for them recently, but 'Chasing The Dragon' shows they still have plenty of fresh and interesting ideas in which to pursue. Oozing with this rich and emotive passion from beginning to end, they continue to shine as one of the more distinctive names doing the rounds right now.