Gel is back at it with their latest EP, Persona, released shortly after their massive album Only Constant last year. While Persona shares some familiar elements with its predecessor, it manages to carve out its own unique identity and feels like a natural evolution for the band. One thing that stands out is the more polished and streamlined approach to songwriting. Gel has clearly honed their craft, with each track on this EP feeling more refined, yet still maintaining the raw energy that made them stand out in the first place.

What’s immediately noticeable is how much groovier the songs are this time around. The band has leaned into a more rhythm-driven approach, with the drums serving as the backbone of the band’s sound. The drummer’s ability to mix in intricate cymbal hits and dynamic fills creates interesting and fresh drum patterns that really give the band their unique style. The grooves are infectious, making it nearly impossible not to bob your head along as you listen—it's that subtle yet powerful.

The guitar work on Persona takes on a bit of a 90s alt-punk vibe, with heavier tunings giving the songs a grittier feel. The riffs here are simple, but that’s part of the magic—Gel sticks to a less-is-more approach, delivering riffs that don’t need to be technical to make an impact. It’s all about the feeling, and the straightforward riffing cuts straight to the core. The bass complements the guitars perfectly, adding weight and depth to the tracks, further enhancing that overall gritty vibe.

The lyrics are as catchy as ever, with well-crafted lines that stick with you after the song ends. The vocal delivery has shifted slightly, moving away from the huskier sound of their previous work and embracing a more polished, refined tone that fits the mood of the EP perfectly. It’s a natural progression for the band and adds an extra layer of accessibility to the tracks. The vocals are clear and sharp, making them easy to sing along to, and they serve the melodies well.

That said, there are a few minor issues with the production on Persona. At times, the mix feels a bit off, particularly in some of the more layered songs where the vocals and guitars seem to get a little lost in the overall sound. While the drums and bass come through with full force, the guitars and vocals can occasionally feel drowned out, which detracts slightly from the overall listening experience. It's not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to note.

Despite this minor hiccup, Gel continues to deliver with Persona. They’ve carved out a distinct niche in the punk scene, blending gritty, groovy rhythms with catchy melodies and lyrics. This EP is made for the freaks, the rebels, and anyone who loves a good groove in their punk. It’s raw yet refined, and once again, Gel shows they’re not afraid to push boundaries while keeping their sound fresh. Persona is another solid chapter in the band’s ongoing evolution, and it proves they’re just getting started.