Since New Times last year named Panic Bomber Best New Electronica Artist, a lot has changed for the artist born Richard Haig. He has toured throughout North America and the United Kingdom and enjoyed a successful showcase during March's SXSW. And after two self-released albums, Calling in Threats and Getting on My Mind, Panic Bomber's new Discipline EP gets a proper release, albeit a minor one, through Canada's YYZ Records.
The three-track disc marks a bit of a departure for Haig. Calling in Threats was a manifesto against Miami's lack of a live music scene and love for DJ culture. Discipline, though, finds Haig finally relishing the electronic music genre and taking pride in the music he's making — which he should, considering he seems to have a natural talent for it. The title track is perhaps his best work. It's a housey electro number that climaxes early and then turns into a glitchy electro-pop track reminiscent of Calvin Harris.
"Can't Sleep" and "Perfection and Grace" feature the live instrumentation and electro sounds that have become Haig's signature. Which leaves us wondering if his next full-length might tip him over the edge and earn him more national recognition. Let's hope so.
