The Shin High Foxes are a local indie/rock band with punk influences that help them create a unique blend of music only seen in Shippensburg, Pa., and the surrounding areas.

“We’re All Alright,” the band’s first EP (extended play) will be releasing at the end of May, but we snagged an advanced copy to give you a sneak peak.

The album starts off with a musical prelude, which I found a bit boring, not knowing what to expect. Looking back, it seems out of place, not really flowing into the next song at all.

“Hope” the band’s single, sets the mood for the EP with a catchy bassline from Preston Sheaffer as well as haunting vocals. It is by far the catchiest song from the Shin High Foxes and is a great slow, mellow jam that fans of Death Cab for Cutie could appreciate.

“Northeast Binge” continues the trend of prominent, catchy basslines, but really shines when it shows off some of the band’s personalities when they argue who wants to “count it off” before they transition into what sounds like a jam session to finish off the track.

Each song tells part of a story, which is that of self-reflection. It is very relatable for many young people, who are simply trying to find their place in this world. “Collective Philosophy” is a perfect example of this. It is a slower song asking: “If we turn to dirt, tell me what were we worth?”

“Requiem” also helps push the band’s message. This song, written to a gospel hymn, harkens back to the earlier works of Taking Back Sunday. The slow, melodic jam featuring double-canon vocals really hit home.

Perhaps the best compliment that a reviewer can pay to any musician or band is that they could feel the emotion and “get” the message that they are trying to convey.

I certainly felt moved while listening to this EP and would recommend it to any indie/rock fan. But I think it is safe to say that I have hope for this local band as it looks forward to its summer tour and the future ahead

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