badsoma releases brand new debut EP

Based in Los Angeles, badsoma is new collective of musicians whose sound fuses the haunting lyricism and melodic appeal of indie pop with the edge of alternative rock. In its current formation, the outfit came together last year with members Armin Fard, Starlit Eyes, Donny Segien, Braden Rose, Ana Léon and Lindsey Hamilton, and has since rapidly established itself as an exciting new act in the city’s music scene.

With a fluid approach to both instrumentation and songwriting, badsoma has won over local audiences, delivering memorable performances at venues like the Hotel Cafe, Breaking Sound and The Everly. Their previous single, “heat and disorder,” achieved chart success and broadened their reach, connecting with fans around the globe.

Now, badsoma takes a bold step forward with their debut EP, kicking and screaming, a collection that showcases their artistic vision and crystallises their status as one of the most promising acts in the indie music scene. The five-track EP offers a distilled essence of badsoma’s live energy, capturing the intensity and emotion that have become the staple of their performances. Written and recorded mostly in their home studio in Long Beach, with additional work done at Singing Serpent studios in San Diego, the EP benefits from the talents of Adam Sisco, who engineered and mastered the tracks while drummer Koosha Hakimi also makes invaluable contributions.

Started off with “when no one’s around,” the soft tones of piano notes drift through a hazy sonic atmosphere as hushed lead vocals float through the dreamy, stripped-back soundscape. Developing with the tumble of memorable lines delivered by stacked vocal harmonies, it’s an immersive showcase of the band’s songwriting talent filtered through an experimental lens.

“the stranger” injects subtle energy with the shuffle of drums and light crunch of guitar blending with the gentle bounce of key tones. Serving up an instantly catchy indie jam, smooth vocal leads apply bright melodic hooks as the twang of lead guitar adds an alternative touch.

With songs like “burn out,” they once again present their elegant songwriting with a smouldering outing with female led vocals. Gradually building the arrangement with the soft patter of drums and intricate interplay of guitars and chiming tones, it’s a delicate indie pop sound that further reveals the diversity and range of the band’s sound.

“talk about me” slips into a swaying rhythm as the hop of drums and gliding guitar lines set up a charming duet where alternating singers take the leads on this psychedelic-tinged indie rock piece. Closing the EP with “all i wanted to see,” the band takes listeners on one final journey through their unique musical world via a laid back indie rock groover full of blissful melodies backed by the lilting rhythms of drums and layers of guitars. With kicking and screaming, badsoma make a compelling artistic statement, taking the perfect snapshot of their live material to deliver an EP that’s unique, enjoyable and delightful from start to finish.

Listen to kicking and screaming below