David M Rangel / October 5, 2026 / Review
Boston singer/ songwriter Joshua David Thayer wasted no time following up his latest full-length, So Little, Close to Nothing (which we reviewed back in January). The sense of eclecticism on that record, which has its foundations in experimental indie folk, continues on Warmonger, a three-song mini concept EP which also shows Thayer to have an ever expanding musical palette.
The fuzzy, square-waved noise guitar sound of the first track (also the title track) comes rolling out the gate with a lo-fi sense of pop that is accessible enough for radio, yet has those components that would appeal to hipsters and other deep divers of music who are “in the know”. The Jesus and Mary Chain vibes hint at 90s slacker indie meeting a 60s style wall of sound that produces no-frills rock ‘n’ roll. The result sounds effortless and not overly production-conscious.
“That’s the Way I Roll” gives off a bluesy sense of grit as if getting lost in some urban haze, with only a vaguely sinister guitar as your guide. The understated vocal lines are slightly back in the mix and sound as if being sung through some purposely muffled microphone, creating a dark vibe of something evil lurking beneath. It’s a fitting sound to a lyrical narrative that seems to be the point of view of a megalomaniacal dictator of sorts (No one will say / I’m a villain to my face).
This record comes to an end with the bright indie pop of the very catchy “Stay Small” with the aforementioned dictator (possibly based on someone who might be in our current political climate?) continuing with the egotistical commands in a voice and cadence that channels one of the kings of lo-fi, Guided By Voices’ Robert Pollard. The final vocal hook (it’s best that you never understand) gives the song an infectious ending with a (likely unintended) nod to the obscure 1971 pop gem “Once You Understand” by American novelty/studio band , Think. This EP overall is a satisfying little excursion and a nice, unexpected change of pace that will likely tide over Thayer’s fans, while they wait for the next full length album.
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