Krewella: PLAY HARDER Remix EP Review

Published: December 12, 2012

By: Jordan Calvano

Krewella is simply unstoppable. The Chicago-based trio was relatively unknown at the start of 2012, but has shown just how fast things can change. The group’s debut EP, Play Hard, proved they could back up their rebellious image, yet haven’t let this success go to their heads. Krewella are still the same kids with an insatiable drive to be heard, and the world can’t help but notice.

Krewella recently released a “Fuck Finals” mix to get students through the worst part of the school year, and now they’ve provided listeners with the perfect winter break soundtrack. The EP includes a jaw dropping original tune, along with eight venomous revamps of tracks from their first release.

Opening up the Play Harder EP is “Come & Get It,” which combines seductive vocal sections with adrenaline-pumping drumstep tones. The track shines a light on Rain Man’s electrifying production, which has continued to progress despite Krewella’s ambitious tour schedule.

Up next are four enthralling switch ups of “Alive.” Each remix brings something completely fresh to the table, while highlighting Jahan and Yasmine Yousaf’s spellbinding vocal work. Cash Cash X DJ Kalkutta pump the track full of driving electro tones, Pegboard Nerds unleash galvanizing dub womps, while Jakob Liedholm takes on an alluring big room approach.

Closing out the release is a collection of floor rattling revamps of “Killin’ It.” KillaGraham exceeds all expectations with a face melting banger, striking up an impunitive balance between moombah and heavy metal. Dirtyphonics meshes their bewitching style of drumstep with Krewella’s “Go hard” lyrics, resulting in a riveting party anthem.

The unpredictable trio closes out 2012 with a tantalizing EP full of catchy remixes and a provocative original track. Keep an eye out on Krewella, because they’ve only just hit their stride.