When Toronto's
Frigs resurfaced in 2016 with the
Slush EP, it was the beginning of the band's rebirth. Not only did they change their name from Dirty Frigs, they streamlined their sound, stripping away the psychobilly elements of their early singles in favor of the stark, gritty post-punk that comes into its own on
Basic Behaviour. This leaner approach puts the focus on the band's greatest asset, singer Bria Salmena. Raspy and world-weary beyond her years, her formidable voice rivals forebears like
Carla Bozulich,
Thalia Zedek, and
Patti Smith as well as more recent forces of nature such as
Savages'
Jehnny Beth. Salmena demonstrates her power and nuance on songs like the furious "II," where she wails "This is shit/Just admit it," and "Waste," where her rants and whispers drive the song's momentum. Though
Frigs don't hide their influences, they aren't complacent about them either. Instead, they push that legacy forward on fiery, complex songs such as "Chest" and "Talking Pictures," which reflects their love of
Gang of Four and
Wire in its bracing riffs. On "Solid State," they borrow some of
Sonic Youth's unpredictable song structures instead of their much-copied alt-rock cool as the song careens between grungy pop and vertiginous breakdowns. "Gemini" is even more intriguing, setting Salmena's coos to a bleary keyboard loop that suggests an entirely different direction for
Frigs -- and proves they're just as riveting when they're quiet. A commanding, confident debut,
Basic Behaviour goes well beyond the ordinary. ~ Heather Phares