I first became aware of the entity now known as Art vs. Science when they were playing as Roger Explosion – easily one of the better rock bands playing in Sydney. In their reborn form of Art vs. Science, they make play a mix of electro and rock, and this switch has seen them win Triple J’s ‘Unearthed’ competition, leading to gigs at Splendour in the Grass and Good Vibrations, among others. The reason for the group’s success is simple: they know how to write fun songs. Nonsensical lyrics, synth melodies and a beat to make you shake whatever appendages you have free is the order of the day here, and it’s impossible not to like.

The EP opens with the track that started it all, Flippers. With it’s simple refrain of “Hey! Ho! Use your flippers to get down!”, it’s the kind of track that undoubtedly works well live. Parlez vous francais? boasts an irrepressible beat and a slightly rockier feel. Again, it pays not to listen too closely to the lyrics, but you’ll almost certainly be too busy nodding your head to bother. Friend in the Field takes a slightly more introspective course, while Take Me To Your Leader has a distinctly Pnau-like sound. Hollywood is another track that certainly works well live, with its epic breakdown part way through.

Art vs. Science aren’t doing anything breathtakingly new, but what they do, they do very well. It’s fun and lighthearted and easy to dance to, and not liking them would be like kicking a puppy. This is a well balanced EP, and well worth a look.