NYC quintet Controller may put on a tough front, but despite their lyrical aggression, they’ve really got a grasp on instrumental technicality. With a sound somewhere between post punk and pop – similar sonic coordinates inspiring what seems to be their biggest influence, i.e. early U2 – the band surely masters the art of anthemic choruses. Listen to their self-titled debut EP here, and – if you dig – catch them live at Mercury Lounge on September 30. – Jillian Dooley
This band submitted their music for coverage here.