The Haywire / No Guard Split EP is an exciting and refreshing shift from what fans might expect from these two bands, who are more commonly known for their harder, punchier sounds. Instead of leaning into their usual intensity, this release takes a more playful and melodic approach, offering a blend of punk energy, pop sensibility, and surprisingly catchy grooves. It’s a fun departure from their typical style, showcasing both bands experimenting with new sounds while staying true to their roots.

Haywire kicks things off with three tracks that reveal a lighter, more upbeat side to their music. The opening track, "Summer Nights," sets the tone with funky, deep basslines and booming drums that provide a solid foundation for the infectious, pop-punk-flavored riffs and catchy “whoa” vocals. The lyrics are a celebration of carefree moments with friends, creating an instantly relatable vibe that feels like a warm summer evening spent in good company. The track ends on a stripped-down acoustic section that adds a silly and fun touch, not taking itself too seriously and never overstaying its welcome.

Next, Haywire shifts gears with “Always By My Side,” a more introspective and moodier track that features smooth, polished vocals and a rich, 90s-inspired bassline. The simple, restrained riffs allow the song to breathe, offering a moment of calm amid the upbeat energy of the previous track. The lyrics are reflective, and the overall vibe is smoother, giving the listener a chance to catch their breath before diving into the next track.

“Me and You” brings Haywire back into pop-punk territory, ramping up the melodic appeal with layered riffs that drive the song forward. It has a strong sing-along quality, making it feel like the perfect soundtrack for a night out with friends. The energetic guitars and catchy chorus pull the track together, leaving you humming the tune long after it ends. Across all three of Haywire’s contributions, the band demonstrates a seamless balance of energy, melody, and catchy hooks that feels both fresh and nostalgic.

No Guard takes over the second half of the split EP, delivering a slightly grittier, more grounded approach while still maintaining a melodic core. "Dirtbag" opens their side with punchy, punk-driven basslines and straightforward, easy-to-follow riffs. The track feels raw and unpolished, with vocals that are somewhat buried in the mix, giving it a lo-fi, garage-band feel. The drums are less prominent compared to Haywire’s tracks but still provide a steady backbone, keeping the song moving forward with solid momentum.

"True Love" tightens things up with distorted, sharp-edged riffs that inject a sense of urgency into the track. The bass and drums lock in perfectly, adding drive and forward motion to the song while allowing the riffs to cut through with intensity. The production here is more focused, and No Guard’s signature style starts to shine through, making for a powerful addition to the EP.

No Guard wraps up the split with a cover of Haywire’s “Love Song,” offering a fresh take on the original. The band reimagines the track with heavier guitar tuning and a new vocal delivery that adds swagger and a bit of extra punch. The cover feels both familiar and entirely new, with the bass and drums staying tight and giving the track real weight, while still paying homage to Haywire’s original version. It’s a fun, energetic way to close out the EP, showcasing No Guard’s ability to reinterpret a song and make it their own while respecting the spirit of the original.

In conclusion, The Haywire / No Guard Split EP strikes a perfect balance between punk energy and melodic hooks. Both bands experiment with new sounds and push their boundaries without losing sight of their core musical identities. Haywire offers playful, pop-punk-inspired anthems, while No Guard delivers gritty, punk-infused tracks with a raw edge. Fans of both bands — and anyone who appreciates punk and hardcore with a melodic twist — will find plenty to enjoy in this split EP. It’s an exciting glimpse into the future of both bands and a testament to their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.