Midnight Movies – Nights EP

Midnight Movies – Nights EP / 2008 New Line / 6 Tracks / http://www.midnightmovies.net /

It has been a while since we here at NeuFutur have heard anything from the Midnight Movies, and this “Nights” EP marks the next evolution in their sound. The act makes a strong step forward with their psychedelic version of The Moody Blues’ “Nights In White Satin”. Despite the Jefferson Airplane-styled vocals that are present, the focal point of this track has to be the atmospheric arrangements that dominate during the chorus. Where most acts would keep the cover songs to the end of their CD, Midnight Movies are able to really give the track a life that effectively gives them a pass. The second track is “Should Have Known” and it links the psychedelic sound of the introductory track with a Breeders-style approach to alternative music and a hint of Ministry-esque industrial.

The resulting track is haunting, catchy, and the instrumentation is driving enough to keep individuals listening in for a long time. The band puts their industrial foot forward with “Souvenirs”, which is remixed by Rick Zinner for this EP. The same driving beats that made “Should Have Known” so memorable return for a second go during “Souvenirs”. “Stormy Eyes” is the longest track on the disc, and despite the fact that it occupies nearly six minutes of the EP’s 27 minute runtime, the song goes by quickly. This is due to the band’s skill in weaving a narrative in this song that is easily palatable to anyone that is listening in. The “Nights EP” shows that Midnight Movies have evolved considerably since “Lion The Girl”, and that their next album will likely be a further set of steps forward. Give the disc a go if you like strong female-lead vocals that are bolstered by the union of psychedelic and instrumental genres.

Top Track: Stormy Eyes

Rating: 6.8/10