Somehow, the way Sydney-based trio The Slims blends spaghetti western-tinged surf with psychedelic rock and permanent wave leads to an intriguing and unique sound—as if The Shadows and Arctic Monkeys had a love child. For proof: Jake Jamieson (vocals/guitar), Jackson Stocks (guitar), and Max Jones are back with their sophomore EP, Neon Cowboy. Its five tracks are a smoky, cinematic ride full of reverb and twang: “Eyes wide, destined to find // All of the secrets you’ve hidden behind” (from the title track). The atmospheric guitars draw you in, the characteristic vocals won’t let you go.

Neon Cowboy, produced by Nick Hatzakos and The Slims, is out now digitally via Mandatory Music.

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