This seven track EP is an interesting beast. It reminds me of the 1980s and at times of The Cure and Bauhaus, but it is a sound that I cannot put a firm finger on. I chalk that up to my lack of exposure to this brand of indie rock.

Rebuilding the Rights of Statues, or Re-TROS for short, have been influenced by bands like Gang of Four, Interpol, and Joy Division. All three are bands that I have no experience with. However, when the CD arrived unannounced on my doorstep, I have to admit to being a bit curious. I cannot claim to really like it, but it is interesting enough to be getting multiple spins.

Re-TROS is a three piece export from China, where it is very difficult to practice the art of indie rock. Think about that, a band that is attempting to be anti-establishment within a communist state. That alone is worth giving them a little bit of credit. Whatever they write, lyrically, needs to be submitted to the government in order to be approved for recording and distribution. Talk about putting a damper on your ability to create anything critical. They are able to circumvent some of these issues by composing in English. The lyrics are then translated into Chinese for government inspection. This allows for certain changes to be made in the way things are worded, to change the actual intent. For example, I have read that the song title "TV Show (Hang the Police)" was translated as "The Police are Laughing."

As for the music, it is quirky, sparsely arranged, and at times quite weird. The album is marked with open chords, groovy bass lines, and solid drumming. It is something I am having trouble putting into context. It is not exactly my kind of music, but the sound is kind of alluring, especially during the quirkier moments.