One of the local surprises of the past summer was the breakup of Malone (see last issue’s local band memorial for more on that) just as they were releasing their latest EP.  Once again this quartet dished out their unique flavor of guitar forged alt/indie/power pop that skirts heartland rock without succumbing to it.  This time around though, the songs are bigger in scope with more resonance and a loudness that propels the more up-tempo songs here.  In addition, the use of banjo and accordion on occasion gives layers here that straight-up guitar rock might miss.  This EP revealed Malone at their most focused, ready to snare listeners from the word “go” to create some inspired melodic pop/rock that reshapes what the subgenre can be.  This EP is a fitting swansong for one of the best bands to come out of Columbia, MO in the last few years.  (BOONE)

(malonetheband.com)