Dikembe’s ‘Healer of the Pride’ starts this split, and immediately I know I’ll like this. It’s the first I’ve heard of them, and it won’t be the last time I listen. They effortlessly combine punk and emo, gang vocals and melodies. The band share similarities with fellow Gainesville natives Hot Water Music, but you can hear a variety of influences, like Minus The Bear, Joie De Vivre and even Joy Division. On the strength of this song alone I can recommend this EP.

The Jazz June’s offering is ‘Over Underground’, and is their first official recording in almost 12 years. If you’re expecting classic The Jazz June, don’t get too excited. Although they have never been known as a particularly heavy band, ‘Over Underground’ is a lot poppier than previous offerings. It’s by no means bad, but it seems the band has departed somewhat from their roots, something they’re more than willing to admit.

With both bands due to release albums later in the year, this EP is a good sample of things to come, and is well worth a listen.

– Alex Ryan