DESCRIPTION:
I don't "yo" very often... but yo.

New Plastic! I haven’t heard anything regarding this group since a member of 86 Gemini (which this group shares two members with: https://86gemini.bandcamp.com/album/actualize-2015-demo) sent me a copy of Plastic’s “2.0” tape alongside Gemini’s Actualized demo (https://animatedmusic.bandcamp.com/album/plastic-20). I definitely wasn’t familiar with the group back when I had first received the tape, and despite having played – and consequently rewound – the thing to the point of near-obliteration, I still hardly knew a damn thing about Plastic. Gauging from the Chicago-based label, Animated Music, and the group’s spotted appearances at venues across Chicago, I could assume that they were based in, y’know, Chicago; that’s about all I was aware of. It wasn’t until recently that I’d actually learned anything about the band. VERY recently, as in, like, just a few hours ago.

As I figured, Plastic is from Chicago/NWI – consider that point one for the Jimster – but wasn’t made up by any of the Chicagoan musicians I had previously guessed – consider that point one hundred for everyone else. The band’s been through a few line-up changes since its inception, but currently features Blake and Macklin of 86 Gemini, as previously mentioned, with Ariel replacing the group’s previous synth-player. Blake’s the one who writes the music, hence being the only member that’s remained constant through these revisions. I ain’t sure of the group’s newfound direction was gestated by said line-up changes, but the sounds in the group’s new tape is fucking stunning. Released earlier today, Plastic’s self-titled EP chooses to relish in the atmosphere just a bit more, ditching the psychotic, fast-paced synth-punk approach for one that’s more discernably minimalistic, being ridden with pockets of negative space and tense build-up sequences. It’s darker, broodier, but intensely disturbing all the same, with “Untitled (Mark II)” serving as a fantastic point of reference as to how the group’s sound has evolved and maturated since their last release; I dig it a ton. Tapes of this EP either exist or WILL exist soon. Keep an eye on Plastic’s or Animated Music’s Bandcamp page if you’re interested.

Friendly reminder that Bandcamp is donating all of today's proceeds to the ACLU. Now you can simultaneously support cool bands AND donate to a good cause, all from the comfort of your own home! Wow!

TRACK LIST:
At The Gates - 0:00
A Good Laugh – 3:20
Mannequins – 6:38
Untitled (Mark II) – 8:35
A Call for Help – 12:16
731 – 13:44
The Garden – 17:17

DOWNLOAD: https://plasticchicago.bandcamp.com/releases