Hey everyone – we’ve got a new EP review for you, and I’m glad this one landed on our radar. It’s a fun listen and a strong step forward for the band.
Seattle‑based alt/garage rock band, Sun Spots, released their new EP, Dog Is Calling, on Friday, March 13th, 2026 under Den Tapes. The EP follows their 2022 release of Loosey as well as shows along the West Coast where they shared stages with Enumclaw, GUV, TV Star, and Supercrush.
A defining element of Sun Spots’ sound is the way they balance light pop melodies with the heavier weight and grit of classic grunge guitar. Dog Is Calling leans into that contrast even more. Across four tracks (most coming in at just under three minutes), the band pairs raw, emotive, but soothing vocals with distorted guitar tones that feel both nostalgic and refreshing.
Compared to their earlier material, this EP is their most polished and catchy work yet – still grungy, still dynamic, but more refined in its songwriting. They keep the tempo shifts and energy swings that make their music engaging.
Most importantly, the EP moves you. Good music should take you somewhere, and this one does just that – its warm, familiar elements give you that déjà‑vu head-bobbing feeling from the first listen.
Track‑by‑Track
“Jesus Muffler”
A clear nod to ’90s grunge in both vocals and tempo, but with a poppier sensibility than their earlier releases. A strong opener that sets the tone for the EP.
“Rocket”
Kicks off with a great little hook and guitar effects that feel new for the band. The track shifts from light to heavy and back again with ease. This one stands out – easily my favorite Sun Spots song to date.
“Could’ve Been”
Starts off faster than we’ve heard from them before, pushing into a more urgent sense in the intro while keeping their melodic core intact. It’s a great song.
“Dog Is Calling”
The title track is complete and perhaps the most bittersweet sound on the EP – you can really picture yourself hearing this track on the score of a late ’90s movie like She’s All That. It’s a fitting ending that ties the whole project together.
As mentioned, Dog Is Calling dropped Friday the 13th. Check out Den Tapes for more info!
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