At long last, Ebony Tusks give us their debut single on High Dive Records / Intelligent Sound. One of the most exciting live acts of the past decade (I first crossed paths with the trio at Middle of the Map 2013 when they destroyed the patio stage at Riot Room), their energy is uncompromising. A haunting beat opens “HDF,” letting Marty Hillard start with a whisper before letting his uniquely hypnotic cadence takeover. The production is flawless which might seem strange to say on a minimalist instrumental backing it, but it’s too clean and sharp to ignore. A brooding, boiling sound that turns your anxiety up with the tension.

In the accompanying video Hillard, Nathan Giesecke, and Dan Smith are joined by battered and bruised restaurant employees, all looking the worse for wear. With each verse, they can simultaneously give you a feeling of impending doom and surreal elation. An infectious vibe.

Fuck winter; there’s nothing colder than Ebony Tusks.