Twisted Teens were one of my favorite discoveries of 2024. Their debut full-length tape slowly but surely became an underground success story — helped by a relentless tour schedule (seriously, catch them live if you can, they’re electric) — and eventually got the vinyl treatment.

Now, they’re back with the EU EP on Jazz Life, recorded this summer in the UK during a short but inspired session. It’s great to finally hear new material. The six songs here don’t feel like leftovers from the debut, nor do they mark a dramatic shift. Twisted Teens still mix folk, punk, blues, garage, and rock ’n’ roll into their own mystical brew — equal parts old school and next wave. That signature sound is still here: Cas P. Ian’s spellbinding vocals, Ramon Joseph Santos’ slide guitar, and that unmistakable sense of spontaneity and ramshackle charm.

If anything, EU EP sounds a bit more relaxed and polished, like a band growing into its power. For me, the highlights are the drumroll-backed opener Graveyard, the singalong single Everyone, and the old-timey instrumental closer Fire Waltz With Me.

The band from New Orleans announced the EP with a promise, “we’re about to start dropping a ridiculous amount of music, so here’s an appetizer.” Well, if this is just the appetizer, I’m clearing the table and bringing a bigger plate.

Add to wantlist: Bandcamp