Review Summary: Catchy, heavy, and thoroughly enjoyable, but at 4 songs there is room for more on this short but sweet EP.
One word which sums up this short but very enjoyable EP is "heavy". From the frantic pace of the opener "If You Found This It's Probably Too Late" to the monstrous closing riff of "What If You Were Right The First Time?", the EP rarely slows its breakneck pace.
The first song sets the tone, beginning with a jaunty strings section before breaking into the chaotic wailing wailing of vocals and guitar. So far this is all familiar territory, and "If You Found This It's Probably Too Late" is a fantastic song, only marred by its very short (1:32) runtime. However, this contributes to the tone of the EP, and serves as more of an introduction to the mad world of the Arctic Monkeys.
The second song, "Brianstorm" is a gem. Whilst slower than the first song, it more than makes up for this with the usual magnificently witty and entertaining lyrics the Arctic Monkeys are known for. Also this song is a better length; clocking at just under three minutes, the listener has more time to absorb and enjoy the song.
Next comes possibly the weakest song on the EP, "Temptation Greets You Like Your Naughty Friend". It starts promisingly enough, with the usual high lyrical standard and an interesting, if slightly simple, riff. The chorus is also exceptional, and very enjoyable, but the song falls apart somewhat with the rapping section; its not that the rapping is bad, on the contrary it is quite good, but it clashes horribly with the style and tone of the song, and results in a complete loss of momentum.
Finally there is ""What If You Were Right The First Time?", which is an absolutely fantastic song. Beginning very much like the other songs on the EP, about half way through this song lets rip with a guitar part that is so incredibly menacing and powerful that it is a must-listen. This song brings the EP back to its very high standard, and is one of my favourite Arctic Monkeys songs.
However, at a length of only ten minutes, this EP is a bit on the short side, which is a shame considering the largely flawless lyrical and musical showmanship it presents. A great place to start getting into this band, and one of my favourite EPs, despite its flaws.
