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Rahim

The debut EP from New York City-based Rahim sounds like a final salvo from the somewhat imploded D.C. scene that included the almost defunct Q and Not U and the totally kaput Black Eyes. Though they’re not signed to post-punk progenitor Dischord, Rahim blends the same sonic dissonance and complicated percussion work that Black Eyes and co. had come to define.

Rahim’s Jungles is full of disjointed melodies and high-falutin’ lyrics. You might want to bring a dictionary for the third song off the EP, “Trebuchet” — or we can provide you with a crib sheet: Trebuchet: n., “A medieval catapult for hurling heavy stones.” The song juxtaposes lovelorn sentiment against disharmonious melodies and employs good, old-fashioned punk irony. Lead vocalist Michael Friedrich sings about the trebuchet: “While my heart softly sleeps / [the trebuchet] cradles gently and releases.” Oh, Rahim’s stony punk heart and how it weeps. Jungles manages to pack a swift punch in its meager four songs. Friedrich’s voice has a slightly dandyish lilt to it; he sounds a bit like an affected Jason Stollsteimer of the Von Bondies.

For those of you impressed by this brief debut effort, Rahim is coming out with a full-length in early 2006. Rahim is set to play a show with a boast-worthy lineup on August 26 at New York’s Bowery Ballroom. They take the stage with Les Savy Fav, comedian Fred Armisen, and Thunderbirds Are Now!

Link: Rahim official site

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