The Year of the Pest EP marks a strong moment for the British thrash band Pest Control. This release sees the band honing and condensing their sound into a tight and focused collection of tracks that delivers solid, well-produced music. The production on this EP is notably clean and crisp, offering a great balance of loudness without overwhelming the listener. The overall sound is sharp and clear, particularly the vocals, which stand out as one of the highlights. The raw, husky, and unclean vocals from the main vocalist are strong and commanding, giving the tracks a visceral energy. Meanwhile, the lower-register backing vocals come in at just the right moments to add depth and spice to the songs, enhancing the overall impact.

The thrashy riffs are a driving force throughout the EP. They are tight, precise, and infectious, with a great sense of energy and bite. Songs like “Time Bomb” showcase these riffs at their best, capturing the essence of classic thrash while maintaining a fresh edge. Even when the riffs take on a heavier and denser tone, as heard in “P.M.C.,” the band manages to add an interesting layer of groove that keeps the tracks engaging and dynamic. The way the riffs transition between aggression and groove is one of the standout features of the EP, making each song feel dynamic and full of life.

The drums have a raw, somewhat sloppy quality to them, especially on tracks like “Time Bomb” and “Good Grief.” While they might not be the tightest in terms of technical precision, this loose quality adds a certain charm to the band’s overall sound. The drums are tasteful, with interesting ghost taps and quick fills that can easily be missed if you’re not paying attention, like in “P.M.C.,” where a well-timed fill adds an extra layer of flavor to the track.

The bass, while not as prominent in the first half of the EP, makes its presence known in the latter half, subtly adding a groove that complements the rest of the band’s performance. The bass lines may not always be front and center, but they contribute to the overall vibe of the music, especially in the more groove-driven sections of the songs.

In terms of songwriting, the EP is solid, with each track offering something enjoyable for fans of thrash. However, at times, the songs don’t quite reach the level of intensity or excitement that some might expect, especially during breakdowns or transitions where things feel a bit predictable. Despite these moments, Year of the Pest is still a strong effort overall, with the band delivering a satisfying collection of tracks. It might not have any true standouts that will make listeners go wild, but it certainly offers a solid, enjoyable experience for thrash fans and Pest Control fans alike.