7/10

Despite only kicking off their tenure with their breakthrough debut single 'Always/Never' back in March, Portland's Kallai have already managed to create quite the buzz for themselves. Blending broad and fuzzy shoegaze-inspired aesthetics with a monstrous production, the band's style sees them hark back to the 90s grunge era and redefine it for a modern ear. And with their place of the scene established even further, they look to cement themselves with their eagerly-awaited self-titled debut EP, a collection brimming with raw and passionate textures throughout.

Keeping very much akin to that grizzled guitar-driven direction their recent singles have suggested, 'Kallai' is a warm and inviting introduction to one of America's more promising groups. Creating this brilliantly absorbing aura that finds its way throughout all four of these new offering, their initial EP sees them in strong and confident spirits as they truly soak in this enigmatic direction of theirs. Tracks like 'Dig' also see them venture into yet unheard territory as they swap out the sombre tones of their first two releases for something with a bit more pace behind it, giving the release a wildly adventurous feel as well.

Things may have only just gotten started for them, but 'Kallai' has already seen them tackle a vibrant array of ideas, all in pursuit of honing their rich and immersive sound. Oozing with this compelling atmosphere from beginning to end, they are definitely ones to keep a firm eye on for the future as well.