By Charlie Anderson
2.5 stars out of 5
Released last month, Cougar Gold’s latest EP sounds at home in a dimly-lit, beer-reeking dive bar. The energy is chaotic and raucous, the crowd sweaty and aggressive. However, it is difficult to capture this raw power in the studio, something that the growing profusion of Denver’s alternative punk community has tinkered with over the years. The Archway EP, the second EP of Cougar Gold, does well in this respect, concentrating upon Dan’s driving, forceful guitar and bold vocals, allowing Shon (bass) and Chris (drums) to create underlying, yet powerful foundations. Formed in 2013, Cougar Gold is young and still finding their stride in a sound steered by ‘90s alternative and low-fi punk, though their sophomore release hints substantial promise in the direction of their efforts. Check out Cougar Gold in their element November 14 at Denver’s 100-person capacity Carioca Café.