Drawing influence from some of the most respected names in post-rock and math-rock, IKAD! introduce themselves with an impressive self-titled debut EP that immediately showcases their technical ability.
IKAD! – IKAD! EP
Formed in 2024 in Belgrade, IKAD! is an instrumental trio blending elements of progressive rock, math-rock, post-rock, and post-metal into a sound filled with precision and atmosphere. Inspired by acts such as Animals as Leaders, Covet, and CHON, the band delivers compositions packed with intricate musicianship while still maintaining a sense of flow and accessibility.
For their debut EP, IKAD! waste no time showcasing their musical abilities through three meticulously crafted tracks driven entirely by instrumental performance. Filled with technical precision and intricate musicianship, the record embraces the demanding nature of math-rock and post-rock without feeling unnecessarily overwhelming. This approach is immediately evident on Twt, where aggressive guitar work collides with rhythmic melodic passages, allowing the song to shift naturally between heavier moments and more atmospheric sections without ever losing its balance.
Jesus Was Born follows a similar foundation but takes a more atmospheric direction. The song gives greater space to softer, more dreamlike passages, allowing the melodies to breathe before eventually building back into a heavier, chaotic finale. This contrast gives the track a strong emotional pull and highlights the band’s versatility.
But it is Sequoia that truly puts the “!” in IKAD!, proving that math-rock does not always have to lean entirely into mechanical technicality. While the composition still carries intricate moments, what makes it stand out most are its heartfelt, more straightforward, chilled guitar passages, closing this short record on a highly pleasant note.
“IKAD! delivers a short yet highly enjoyable debut EP, one that across its 15-minute runtime takes listeners on a ride of virtuosity and immersive aural passages that remain satisfying long after the record ends.”
For a debut effort, IKAD! has crafted a significant and memorable EP, balancing intricate musicianship with catchy passages that give the record plenty of replay value.
Discover more from IKAD!:
Discover more on Right Chord Music
- Menaura Share Their ‘DRM’ Dodgy Response Mechanism
- The hypnotic beat of Cravat Blonder.
- Cravat Return With The Enthralling Salto EP
- T.R. Burge & The Temple God Ache (Live)
Words Javier Rodriguez
