Cheap Girls/Lemuria

Split EP

No Idea Records rarely skimps on quality when it comes to their split releases, and their latest, a 7-inch featuring Lemuria and Cheap Girls, is no exception. Lemuria’s two offerings sonically reside in the realm of quirky, cute indie-pop one would expect from the group, with subtle flashes thrown in: “Single Mother” features some impressive tempo changes carried by drummer/vocalist Alex Kerns, coupled with interesting chord progressions from guitarist/vocalist Sheena Ozzella, a sonic staple that often and unfortunately goes unnoticed whenever this band’s talent is discussed.

“Lemons” is structurally more conventional but no less enjoyable than its counterpart, with an acoustic guitar laying a melodic foundation that’s augmented by some sunny hooks as well as Ozzella’s fleeting, vulnerable vocals. Those hooked on the band’s recent full-length Pebble should have no problems enjoying Lemuria’s contributions.

Lansing, Michigan’s Cheap Girls contribute just one track to the release, and “Pure Hate” makes its mark as one of the trio’s best songs to date. Ian Graham’s vocals have never sounded as clear or as confident, and Adam Aymor’s guitar work is simply otherworldly, supplying the hooks and the rock to the band’s foundation of ’90s-influenced alternative that would likely sit well with your older brother that used to own the Lemonheads’ It’s A Shame About Ray on cassette. Awesome.

Lansing, Michigan’s Cheap Girls contribute just one track to the release, and “Pure Hate” makes its mark as one of the trio’s best songs to date. Ian Graham’s vocals have never sounded as clear or as confident, and Adam Aymor’s guitar work is simply otherworldly, supplying the hooks and the rock to the band’s foundation of ’90s-influenced alternative that would likely sit well with your older brother that used to own the Lemonheads’ It’s A Shame About Ray on cassette. Awesome.

No Idea http://www.noidearecords.com

Cheap Girls’ “Pure Hate”