Oneida - Nice / Splittin Peaches

Oneida are a strange beast. Their lo-fi indie pop is strangely alluring without ever really hitting the mark when it comes to over the top choral arrangements or catchy lyrical hooks. The majority of songs can usually be boiled down to a simple keyboard loop or riff that could be built upon ad infinitum. However, the band usually jumps right in and does their business without letting things get out of control. On Nice / Splittin' Peaches, the band continues in their usual tactics. The four-song EP averages about 2:30 a song until the big droning climax of "Hakuna Matata," which comes in over the 14 minute mark. So, whats the preferred method of delivery here? The epic drawn out ending track is a welcomed endeavour (though it's probably more engaging seeing it live), but the quick quirky tracks preceeding it have so much more going on that it's a bit more interesting to listen to. Oneida are an acquired taste but Nice / Splittin' Peaches easily gives you insight into what to expect from a full-length and gives fans more fodder for the collection. [www.enemyhogs.com]