This release brings with it a name change, with the Dublin trio formerly known as Triple Drop now entitled Trap Door. ‘Lata Town’ is the band’s second release after their then-eponymous ‘Triple Drop’ EP in January of 2011. It’s a loud, fast, in-your-face affair with a full and punchy sound for just a three-piece, the beefy guitars particularly noteworthy.
Opener Lata Town is an upbeat number that makes a decent fist at capturing the kinetic feel of the inner city, with dynamic interaction between all involved. There’s a ska beat in there for good measure, and you may just do a comedy double-take at how brazenly it lifts from Jamie T, right down to the vocal mannerisms. This unshakeable comparison continues on Same Old Song, the hooky backing vocals going some way towards distracting from the derivation.
The stamping Black Betty rhythm of K.W.G. – Kids With Guns – provides an EP highlight. Musically it’s enjoyable as fuck with lyrics about delinquency and gurrierism delivered in a suitably shouty manner. It’s the band’s own slant on a familiar formula and it’s pulled off in style, all the pieces slotting together to create a raucous ensemble piece. Closer Wake Up again employs a ska rhythm, with frantic drumming kicking it off and underpinning things throughout, the E.P.’s final slice of social commentary.
‘Lata Town’ is certainly an enjoyable romp through Angry Young Man territory. Although there isn’t much in the way of variation over the four tracks – with the exception of K.W.G. where the band place their own stamp on things – there is an undeniable crackle in the chemistry of the players. It remains to be seen whether they can stretch out and expand on the lyrical themes and musical motifs displayed here, and that Jamie T resemblance is nigh-impossible to ignore, but based on this release Trap Door have the conviction and the chops to blaze a trail in whichever direction they choose.