Review SHIT THE COW “Killing It” – EP

It’s been a while since I first heard a Swedish band with an unusual name. The band is called Shit The Cow and it was their second EP that was sent to my mailbox. “Salt of the Earth” was released in 2013, and the fusion of different styles fascinated me right away.

Today, a few years later, Shit The Cow is still going strong. The guys have released their 14th EP, and it feels like the same passion remains as in the early days. “Killing It” is the title of their latest release, a six-track EP that is the most versatile one the band has launched to date.

Recorded in northern Sweden, in RissnaCity, the five-piece produced music that really hits the mark. “Revolution in Decay” is the opener. It’s a straightforward song with a great melody, reflecting the band’s trademark sound. If Mando Diao were to add a punk vibe to their music, I think it would sound similar to “Revolution in Decay”. The middle part is a surprise, though, with strings taking over before the grooving theme of the song returns.

Next is the fuzzy “Oxygen Kills” — a hybrid of stoner and garage rock with another unexpected twist. Suddenly, a saxophone appears, giving the song an interesting feel. It fits perfectly.

The passion for punk rock shines through in “Brand New Style”. Dominant basslines and anarchic attitudes characterise this song, and Shit The Cow would not be Shit The Cow if the next song were not different. “Recall Voyager II“ is a dark, groovy tune with a dystopian undertone, followed by the rocking “Always by Your Side”. The latter combines a touch of Debbie Harry, punk and dark wave, while maintaining the stoner rock foundation. A cleverly integrated tempo change adds an extra twist to a song that is as unique as its sources of inspiration.

The thunderous opening riff of “Overlord” signals the end of “Killing It”. The galloping basic rhythm is a crucial element of the finale, which is as impressive as previous anthems from Sweden’s north.

“Killing It” is Shit The Cow’s richest and most mature album so far. The band has never changed its musical vision, yet still manages to surprise us. I think one of the key factors in their unique sound is their dedication to music, which follows the heart more than any commercial ambitions.