Rooney & the Minglers - Rooney's Revenge

Rooney & the Minglers

Rooney's Revenge
self-released; 2016

​3.6 out of 5

By Dom Eagle
​

Rooney & The Minglers is a four-piece comprising of friends scattered across Canada. But, whenever the time calls, they meet, jam and record beautiful music.

Their latest seven-track EP, Rooney’s Revenge, emerges with the best opening track I have ever heard from an independent outfit. Those may be big words, but “Traction” is a gritty, dark, ethereal and beautifully-sung opener. It builds slowly and patiently, teasing the satisfyingly-climactic finale. The lead singer aches and breaks under the pressure of his own words, as he repeatedly promises “I won’t give up.”

A slightly lighter tone is adopted on “For Now, For Later.” Twangy electric glistens and reverberates over pulsating drums, transitioning into an eventual burst of synth. An interesting combination of psychedelia and indie rock really showcases Rooney & The Minglers’ talent for crafting a unique sonic style.

This voyage of auditory exploration continues on the ambient, but chaotic, “Gimme Back My Son.” A slow start, perhaps, but well worth the wait when an electrifying wall of sound kicks and crumbles your teeth during the closing moments.

Beauty and tranquility abound on “Rooney vs. Predator.” Soft, timid vocals wash over the droning, but understated, synths floating in the background and echoing guitar chords strummed into oblivion.

All in all, Rooney & The Minglers have released a piece of artwork worthy of very little criticism. Their tracks really flourish from gradual, but well-paced builds with a payoff boasting a delicious slice of sonic ear-candy.

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