For a record that the band themselves described as “serene”, Undersea is quite unsettling.

Not because of  any kind of abrasiveness or harsh musicality, but rather because like most everything they’ve done, it’s emotionally resonant.

The Brooklyn-based  three-piece are known for their epic qualities and Undersea doesn’t disappoint in this regard. But unlike on full albums, the grand scope in question is far more understated. Whether  this is an intentional drift towards a softer sound or a limitation that comes from releasing an EP is yet to be seen.

The Antlers’ albums, particularly 2009’s concept record Hospice (about the fictional Sylvia), are extremely cerebral in their musical approach. A much tougher ask in a four-song EP. This doesn’t work against the band though, with each track being able to stand alone independently its partnered releases.

Serene elements aside, lead singer Peter Silberman continues to wow with his beautiful vocals. Channelling the best parts of Jeff Buckley (think the cooing without the over-the-top-ness), Silberman’s heart-melting vocals on ‘Crest’ are impossible to ignore.

Truly, if this is an indication of what can come to be expected from a new Antlers record, we’ve all got a long, emotionally exhausting, and musically rewarding time ahead of us.

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