Formed in 2010, the marvellously monikered Maudlin Strangers is actually the project of Agoura Hills, California native Jake Hays.

Recorded in Hays’ bedroom, the debut Overdose EP (available from 20th January via Vagrant Records) simply started life as an “opportunity to play each instrument,” says Hays. What can only be described as dark indie rock, the four track EP combines sombre lyricism masked by light, upbeat melodies.

Stream AIM from the EP here.