Wazu: Wazu

Kevin McMahon produced this delightful stab of violent electro-pop from an exciting new male/female duo — and for good reason. The band’s sound is in keeping with acts that McMahon had previously produced, most notably Swans. There’s a sort of dark visceral energy that pulsates through these three tracks, all of which energetic exercises in both dark, near goth, pop, and electro. The latter is an important distinction because too often bands garnering buzz in that genre flounder and don’t deserve to be singled out. Wazu most certainly do. While what they’re doing is anything particularly new, they’re doing it better than just about anyone out there, which is enough to make it noteworthy. Wazu is shrouded in cloudy atmosphere, but there’s enough light for you to see the party they’re throwing: It’s definitely worth joining.