Right down to its neon cover,
the Promise Ring's
Electric Pink EP looks and sounds like pure sugary-sweet candy. Musically, it continues in the tradition of 1999's glorious indie pop epic
Very Emergency and proves that there's no harm in too much of a good thing. From
Davey VonBohlen's lisped intro to the opening title track, it is clear that the band is in great spirits and the overwrought sentiments that gave the group their start couldn't be further removed. "Strictly Television" is an all-out rocker in the tradition of 1997's
Nothing Feels Good, and it quickly gives way to a much more upbeat reworking of "American Girl," originally released on the
Girls & Boys EP. Closing out the record is the high-energy romp "Make Me a Mixtape." With witty lyrics and an unstoppable hook, this track is a less than subtle ode to a music lover's institution (not to mention a sure bet for inclusion on many a future mixtape) that is anything but unmemorable. Many folks were a bit unsure when
the Promise Ring made their move into a more accessible pop-oriented style, but
Electric Pink proves that they accomplished their goals to an impressive degree and are still at the top of their game. ~ Peter J. D'Angelo