CD Review

In the studio, a husband and wife pairing either lends itself to standard cookie-cutter romance or some completely unique creations. When they have a musical menage a trios with a fierce and fiery drummer though, the results are bound to be pounding hot.

Back in the 90s, J. Robbins was playing in DC’s influential Jawbox, working a “day job” as producer and engineer when he met drummer Darren Zentek, then playing the kit for Oswego. The two immediately hit it off, but it took almost a decade for Robbins and wife/bassist Janet Morgan to finally put a trio together with Zentek. But better late than never - when they finally did, the non-rhythmic, hard-hitting Channels was born.

Their new debut EP, Open, is a striking glimpse into what may be the next promising Mid-Atlantic outfit. Quirky beats caught in a punk safety net are delivered in a raw, but glamorous fashion. Robbins’ studio savvy isn’t lost either, as the melodies are clear, yet still possess the necessary indie-grit to give it legitimacy. “Chivaree” is dance-punk flair compared to the wispy “Win Instantly,” showing typical EP range. But the distinct cover of John Cale’s “Fear Is A Man’s Best Friend” is the true centerpiece, with Morgan creating a strong, ironic passivity.