Softcult is eager to take you on a ride to heaven this time around, even if it’s a bit of a bumpy journey. The Canadian shoegaze indie band has evolved their sound by introducing a dreamy, atmospheric quality, paired with haunting vocals that are more prominent on this EP than ever before. The opener, "Haunt You Still," is a great example of this shift, featuring mysterious, reverb-heavy vocals that feel slightly muffled, paired with heavily layered riffs. However, this introduces one of the main issues with the EP—the overall mix feels off in several places, leaving some elements sounding buried beneath the mix.

The vocals in "One of the Pack" and "9 Circles" in particular feel almost drowned out by the instruments, which detracts from their emotional impact. In contrast, the vocals on "Spiralling Out" are better balanced, though they still aren't fully front and center. "Shortest Fuse" stands out as a clear highlight, as the mix here feels more cohesive, and the previously muffled vocals take on a crisp, full-bodied sound that perfectly complements the big and small riff interplay. The track feels like a quintessential Softcult song, with its powerful riffs and beautiful vocal harmonies creating a rich, dynamic texture. The chorus features lush, soft "woo-woos" and harmonies, offering a soothing counterpoint to the intense instrumentation.

Lyrically, "Shortest Fuse" stands out with its profound reflections on life, living fully, and seizing the moment. It’s by far the strongest track on the EP, showcasing the band’s ability to blend musical intensity with deep emotional resonance. The other songs on the EP are solid as well, still maintaining that signature sound, though with varying degrees of success. At times, they channel a 90s alternative or grunge vibe, particularly on tracks like "Spiralling Out" and "Heaven," which are both underpinned by dreamy riffs and thick, wonky bass lines, the latter giving the songs a raw, nostalgic edge.

The drums, throughout the EP, carry a soft touch that adds an understated groove to the music. A perfect example of this is on the opening track, where the gentle percussion subtly supports the atmosphere without overwhelming it. While the production issues can detract from the overall experience, Softcult’s new direction is still a pleasant one to explore. The EP delivers a captivating and dreamy sonic landscape, and despite the mix issues, it remains a worthwhile listen for fans of atmospheric indie and shoegaze.