album: Something Out Of Nothing
artist: NGNK
genre: rock & roll
release date: March 21, 2020
star rating: four out of five

review by Levi Yager

With a flower in one hand and a rifle in the other, NGNK hits the scene in an unforgettable way this spring. The band’s multi-faceted sound both placates and instigates within a single experience, and the debut EP provides much for listeners to chew on. Not content with sticking to just one sub-genre of rock, NGNK involves some hard moments, poppy spots, electronics and even a little reggae influence.

The record starts with “Soon,” a solid opener that’s a well-rounded representation of the band’s capabilities and stylistic affinities. You’ll get to hear a good sample of what’s to come: bold guitars all-around, infectious singing and snappy drums. It’s not NGNK’s heaviest, nor their softest; “Soon” shoots right down the middle.

Displaying more contrast, the next couple songs are, in fact, the heaviest and softest on Something Out Of Nothing. “Harmony,” track two, jumps right into rougher waters and actually features background screams at one point. It’s followed by “Struck Gold,” a song about complicated romance that’s short and sweet. Now would probably be a good time to mention the two main vocal styles employed on this EP; during harder parts, the lead vocals often take on a meatier tone, and less-intense sections feature singing that pours out of the speakers like a smooth wine. This dynamic proves to work quite well for what the band is doing, and the vocals are an overall strength of the record.

The fourth song is undoubtedly the star of the lineup on this EP; it’s the paragon manifestation of NGNK’s sound thus far. “Flowers” is a structural marvel that also incorporates genius melodic design. Honestly, I’ve been whistling the recurring lead guitar flourish for days now, and the chorus won’t leave your head easily either. Speaking of the chorus, it’s a riveting segment filled with anxious, hearty vocals and followed up with a striking, emotional bridge. In cohesion with the musical approach going on here, the lyrics lament over a lost love. “Flowers” definitely leaves an impression, to say the least, and is worth revisiting more than once.

NGNK wraps up the EP with “Cycle,” which is a decent send-off. We get to hear some great guitar riffs in this one, along with synthesizers throughout and a bit of that reggae flow at the end. It doesn’t do much that hasn’t already been done on the album, but it’s still a good finale.

If you like rock music of any kind, this is right up your alley. NGNK have crafted an EP as enjoyable as it is unique, and I’d love to hear more of what they have in store. Something Out Of Nothing is a brilliant first spark for a band poised to spread like wildfire.