Flies Are Spies From Hell is the most impressively creative bandname i've ever come across. The music of this similarly impressive quintet, based in different parts of England, should catch your attention. Despite being scattered across the country, their coming together results in the creation of stunningly epic musical landscapes. Formed in 2004, the band released a 5-track Demo EP last year showcasing their talent and potential. Their second EP, Mountain Language, is an remarkable accomplishment, saturated in beauty, enriched with emotion, and compelling from the moment it begins.

“Mountain Language”  opens with a superbly crafted keyboard piece that is unexpectedly drowned out by crushing metal influenced guitars. The sudden jolt in structure is intrusive at first, but any apprehension you may have is quickly washed away as the guitars lose their fierceness. As the track builds in intensity, the guitars let the keys lead the way in what is a wonderfully executed interplay between the keyboard and guitars, complimented by a steady stream of pounding drums. A moody atmosphere is set in “King Sly” by brooding guitars dancing in the shadows. The keyboard, resigned to emitting organ drones, haunts the background. As the track builds in momentum, the guitars and drums intermingle in a fast and furious game of cat and mouse. While not as strong as the opener or finale, it is still a solid track drenched in suspense with a darker edge than the other tracks. Final track “Next Hour” is an uplifting and powerful keyboard led piece reminiscent of 65daysofstatic. It is simply breathtaking, with its delicate piano, raging guitars and crashing drums. This is the closest Flies Are Spies have come to perfection, and is an excellent choice to conclude the EP.

While the rough and raw feel of its predecessor is evidently missing from this 3-track EP, none of the magic that graced the Demo EP has disappeared. Mountain Language is not a giant leap forward from previous work, but certainly a step in the right direction that is bound to give the band some of the recognition they deserve. Flies Are Spies From Hell have nurtured their sound and each instrument glistens thanks to a more polished production. Under 14 minutes in length, it is over before you know it, and you will find yourself begging for a full-length LP. Until then, there’s always the repeat button.

- Leanne Simpson