Listen: The Bright White preview upcoming EP with 'Mary Anne'

By Frank Krolicki

Carrying on the tradition of high-impact, guitar-driven Chicago power pop, four-piece The Bright White came onto the scene in early 2011 with their solid introductory EP Until Then. Building on the momentum created from that release and playing frequent shows around the city, the band has been back in the studio preparing new music for a second EP due out in March. They're offering a first taste in the form of "Mary Anne," an even bolder, more intense--but no less infectious--effort than their previous material. With frontman Matthew Kayser's grabbing vocals, a tight melody and a wailing guitar solo, the song is a reminder that while indie trends come and go, driving, hook-heavy rock and roll never stops sounding good.

The upcoming EP is still untitled, but according to the band it will feature five tracks and a less polished sound than Until Then that captures more of the energy of their live show. You can listen to "Mary Anne" below, and check out the band live tonight at Abbey Pub (also with I Lost Control and The Luck of Eden Hall, 9 p.m., $10).

The Bright White - Mary Anne by Windy City Rock