Cougs

Description

The long awaited third LP from Cougars. Now a five piece band (no more keyboards or horn section). COUGS, finds the band picking up right where they left off and they don't miss a beat. Raw and energetic rock music with that unmistakable "Chicago sound". For fans of The Jesus Lizard, Big'n, Rocket From The Crypt, etc.

Cougars are a Chicago-based rock band previously signed to the New York-based label Go-Kart Records. In 2023 they signed to Expert Work Records. This is their first new record since 2006.

'Cougs' the third full-length album by the band Cougars, showcases the group's evolution while staying true to their primary sonic direction. This record picks up where the band left off with their previous recordings but also introduces some exciting innovations in their sound. One notable change in Cougars' sound is the exclusion of keyboards and horn section. By stripping away these elements, Cougars created a more focused and stripped-down sound, allowing other aspects of their music to shine. This decision reflects the band's growth and willingness to experiment with its established formula. The album also presents an upgraded approach to songwriting, composing, arranging, and producing music. Fans of Cougars, both old and new, will be delighted by the evolution in these areas. The band's attention to detail is apparent throughout the album, enhancing the listener's experience.

For those unfamiliar with Cougars, the band explores a variety of complementary music genres such as post-punk, post-hardcore, noise rock, and math-rock. However, it's worth mentioning that the band incorporates elements from other genres as well. These additions serve as necessary enhancements, accentuations, and decorations that elevate Cougars' music to an entirely new level. Despite the incorporation of various genres, the band remains loyal to its primary sonic directions, creating a cohesive and unique sound. One of the most striking aspects of "Cougs" is the cleverly assembled, complex patterns that form the basis of each song. Cougars expertly craft intricate chord progressions, riffs, melodies, and themes, which immediately capture the listeners' attention. These catchy and often noisy elements create a captivating sonic landscape that engages the audience from start to finish.

Cougars has once again delivered a standout album. With its cleverly assembled post-hardcore, post-punk, noise rock, and math-rock elements, the album is a treat for fans who appreciate flawlessly crafted music. The band's exclusion of keyboards and horn section, their upgraded approach to songwriting, composing, arranging, and producing music demonstrate their growth and willingness to push boundaries. "Cougs" exemplifies Cougars' continued dedication to their primary sonic direction while exploring new and exciting territories. It's also good to mention that Expert Work Records did an incredible job by picking maroon/gold opaque galaxy and standard black vinyl for this release. These colors perfectly match the outstanding artwork that decorates the packaging. The jaw-dropping watercolor paint of the cougar on the front matches the Cougars' abstract, intense, powerful sound, and gives an entirely new dimension to this release.

FFO/RIYL: The Jesus Lizard, Big'N, Rocket From The Crypt, Haymarket Riot, and Shellac.