Not in the Face

Though begun as something of a tongue-in-cheek bash by Jonathan Terrell and Wes Cargal in 2009, Not in the Face’s aggressive throw-back rock & roll struck an immediate chord with audiences, debut 2011 LP Bikini rising behind driving streetwise anthems like “Downtown Girl.” Now a quartet, the locals’ new EP follows 2012 extended-play Walk in proving that Bikini‘s infectious swagger was no fluke. Opening remake of its biting “Brass Tacks” and a howling “Always Tonight” unload more power, while “Life Behind the Pine Curtain” reels roots-tinged melodies to the jagged riffs of “Say That You Love Me” and golden shimmy of “Single for the Summer.” Cover your eyes if you don’t want them blackened. (12mid, Dirty Dog Bar)

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This article appears in March 7 • 2014.

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Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.