Colaars                                                                                                                                                 Wood Arsenal                                                                                                                         Independent Release, 2012

This Ukranian band has considerable energy and crazy chops. Wood Arsenal is a 5 song EP available for free, but you ought to throw the boys a few coppers if you can, as this good music. With shouted lyrics that are a little hard to discern, the band announces they will not be ignored. They kick off the EP with the driven and forceful number, “The Youth,” that was made just for pogo-ing ‘till you can’t.

With a youthful energy reminiscent of ‘Boy’ and ‘War’ era U2, guitarists Dmitry Tkach, and Ivan Medelyan sport ringing guitar tones that weave themselves together nicely. The two guitars are used to maximum effect here in much the same way The Church used two parts build a wall of sound that weaves together pulls apart and before reconstructing itself.

This is my new favorite Drummer. Not only does Evgeniy Vinogradsky keep great time, have an amazing hi-hat sound, but he understands how to best color the songs, with just enough flash in all the right places. Bassist Chuk, gives everything the right amount a bounce, and keeps things from becoming stiff and feeling forced.

‘Blood and Bones’ has some nice changes in it and the way the lead plays against the stark rhythm guitar is deceptively simple and intriguing. The Title Track, Wood Arsenal is reminiscent of the best surf rock you’ve ever heard.

At times moody and tender, this is also thoughtful and muscular. This is a solid 5 song release from a band that hints at a brilliant future.