Meant to Bend stun with eclectic debut EP ‘Minimum Frowny’ + play Milk Bar (6.6)

On their debut EP Minimum Frowny, the San Francisco-based trio Meant to Bend make the unpredictable accessible. Each track attests to the band’s impeccable musicianship, making heavy use of key changes, frantic guitar licks, and intricate harmonies. From the wonderfully crunchy punk sensibilities of “With the Slope” to the earnest and emotional “Crystal Intent,” Meant to Bend cram in something for everyone in a span of only four tracks. With this project, Nathan Driver (percussion,) Gaku Kelliher (bass/vox,) and Aamir Mauladad (guitar/vox) have beautifully reimagined post-punk, leaving listeners with just one question: When’s the full-length LP coming out? Stream the full EP below in preparation for their show at Milk Bar on June 6. – Lilly Milman