Continuing from last year’s first EP, here comes Stabber with ‘EP II’, which is the sonic equivalent of getting a surprise high-five from a skeleton wearing a leather jacket, shocking, high-energy, and surprisingly wholesome in its own chaotic way. Hailing from the chilly streets of Oslo, this crew has managed to bottle the feeling of a basement show where the floor is sticky, but the vibes are immaculate. It’s hardcore punk that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet packs enough punch to make you want to rearrange your living room furniture with your forehead.
The track “Sick Thoughts” is an absolute masterclass in efficient songwriting, clocking in at under two minutes and delivering more adrenaline than a double espresso injected directly into a vein. It’s got that classic, driving tempo that makes you want to run a marathon in exactly four minutes, featuring vocals that sound like they were recorded while the singer was being gently shaken like a Polaroid picture. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to start a mosh pit in a library, or at least aggressively organize your spice rack.
Meanwhile, the closing track “Shallow Grave” provides the perfect, gritty bookend to the experience, proving that Stabber knows how to lean into a groove without losing their edge. It manages to feel both menacing and incredibly catchy, like a catchy jingle for a haunted skate park. By the time the final chord rings out, you’re left breathless, slightly confused, and reaching for the replay button. This EP is a loud, proud, and delightfully rowdy addition to Norway’s punk scene that’ll leave you grinning through the feedback.
Links of interest:
https://kickrock.bandcamp.com/album/ii-ep
https://stabber.bandcamp.com/album/ep-ii