Each instrument in The Wants’ new single “Ape Trap” (streaming) has its grand entrance: a vigorous drum beat is followed by a gruff bassline, then by a sinister-sounding guitar riff, as smooth vocals creep in. The song draws you in, grips you, and does not let go easily. The single blends elements of pop and post punk with a mechanical feel reminiscent of some semi-robotic sounding bands of the early ’80s, forging a style that pulls you in multiple directions. The clarity of the recording adds to the track’s detached aura as do the lyrics of singer and guitarist Madison Velding-VanDam, both awkwardly abstract and oddly relatable. This band has devised an edgy style that reimagines the sound of post punk in simple but effective ways. You can catch The Wants live on June 30th at Union Pool. – Rene Cobar
