Acoustics

Never mind the fact that it's called the ACOUSTICS EP and electric instruments (bass, keyboard) are plainly audible; the concept here is to present a handful of familiar Minus the Bear nuggets and the new cut, "Guns and Ammo," in a warm, stripped-down light reminiscent of the R.E.M. classic AUTOMATIC FOR THE PEOPLE. It's not a huge departure from Minus the Bear's plugged-in sound (the band doesn't dabble in dissonance or feedback), but it's enjoyable enough and, for fans of Minus the Bear's emotional, musically complex brand of indie rock, a treat.