MIRACLE OF 86 has not done anything new or innovative on their new EP Last Gasp. Vocalist Kevin Devine writes passionate lyrics and vocal melodies that paint a portrait of everyday reality . He manages to translate his words in a style of hope and hostility, allowing ups and downs along the way. Tinges of altcountry, pop and broader styles lace the album giving unique points to a band that stripped down writes textbook emo. Track two, “Surprise Me” contains a chorus that had me singing along with ease on the second listen. My only qualm is track five, as it seems to be a different band stylistically and completely out of place on the EP. This is a release that could have put the band in the forefront of the emo scene had it been released a few years back. However, with the trend begging bands to follow of screaming in their songs, MIRACLE OF 86 sticks to the old formula and does it well. Is Last Gasp going to change music we know it? That is a decided no, but this is solid release from a band that people who enjoy this style should listen to, as it is good as I have heard in a while.

Immigrant Sun