The two-man-band trend rages on. It's reached the point where I can no longer come up with smarmy comments to deride this endlessly proceeding bandwagon. It's no longer unique. Luckily, the music of THE AX should be strong enough to get them noticed regardless of whatever trend they might be chasing.

As heard on this 7 inch, this Oregon two piece display a ton of potential. Just like many of their contemporaries, THE AX's decision to go with the duo line-up seems the be based more on laziness than finding the best sound for their band, as their great, low-fi, punky garage rock could really benefit from some bass guitar. The added low end naturally achieved through your record player helps a bit, but it still sounds like something is missing. Adam Jelsing's drum sound is strong and distinct, but threatens to overpower Chris Pierce's reverb-drenched guitar wails at times. The start/stop nature of "Black Sea" plays to the band's strengths, but it's the B-Side "The Zodiac" that steals the show. This song charges ahead like a punked-up and stoned version of "The Immigrant Song," and is just a refreshing blast of energy from start to finish.

Internet research informs us that an AX full length release is imminent, and based on these two songs, that's good news. Hopefully, they will have found a bass player by then!

- Broadbent

OFFICIAL SITE: myspace.com/theaxmusic

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