antiMusic.com: Return for Refund

Return for Refund

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People talk about how the grunge era kind of came with Nirvana, Soundgarden and the like, and died out after the passing of Kurt Cobain. However, albums like Return for Refund's self-titled EP offer living proof that grunge - or grunge-like styles - are still alive and well.

This band is a long way from Seattle, though, and is actually Canadian (from Toronto, to be exact). Its six-song EP is driven by Drew Clementio's vibrato vocals, which can take on an Eddie (Pearl Jam) vibe on rolling and rambling tracks like "Some Is Better Than None." The group is a trio, rounded out by Sasha Molotkow (guitar, backing vocals) and Karlis Hawkins at the drums, as well as providing backing vocals.

This work also incorporates a jam band feel in places, especially whenever all three members stretch out instrumentally. The group shows a lighter touch with "Those Bombs," which rolls to a shuffle groove. But then it's back to the heavy stuff with "TV Light."

If anybody tries to convince you grunge is dead, just put on Return for Refund and confidently rest your case.