In theory, two young acts producing a split is a smart business move, introducing two sets of fans to one another while saving on recording and production costs. However, in practice and in the case of Never Come Undone, it is important not to make a split where one act out performs the other, thus rendering the other obsolete in relative terms. There’s no doubt a clear difference in style between La Dispute and Koji, however the former is outshone on both occasions by the latter, on this brief four-track introduction, and Koji will undoubtedly walk away the better off.

La Dispute kicks off the split with “Sunday Morning, at a Funeral”; a mesmerizing and soothing guitar line builds underneath Jordan Dreyer’s distinctive yet intolerably whiney voice, which lacks melody and leaves the listener trying to decipher the pleasant instrumentals below. The sentiment is meaningful, and the lyrics are thoughtful, but unfortunately their delivery doesn’t quite do justice to the emotion. Similarly, on “Last Blues,” the stripped-back sound is a refreshing refrain from the messy and distorted guitar that characterises their previous split with Touché Amoré; however, Dreyer’s vocals simply aren’t up to task, and he shouldn’t give up his day job—screaming as loudly as he can—any time soon.

On the other hand, Koji’s “Peacemaker” sounds like it could have featured on a Scrubs soundtrack, with his efficacious and impassioned vocals laced with delicate beats and subtle acoustic rhythm. Koji not only displays potential but also makes clear that he already has what it takes to be huge. His live performances are characteristically inspiring, and he manages to capture this in his recordings. Meanwhile his lyrics are to be taken seriously while his political activism ringing throughout. “Biomusicology” builds upon Koji’s refined song writing: a graceful string section and the utilization of talented friends allows for an even more infectious and atmospheric sound. It would be safe to expect big things from this musician in the future.

 ★★★☆☆

*This review was composed by Ramsey Marwan