An accompaniment to 2023’s A Kiss for the Whole World, Enter Shikari’s Dancing on the Frontline EP is an wonderfully spasmodic addendum that contributes not just remixes and alternate versions of some of Kiss’s best songs, but also contributes new songs that make Dancing feel like a continuation of Kiss. The tracklist consists of 11 songs broken down into two remixes, four new songs (all with features) then five alternate recordings from Kiss. The remixes of “Goldfǐsh ~” and “Bloodshot” are done by the band’s side-act, Shikari Sound System, injected with electronic breakdowns that are spastic, emotional and danceable (even mosh-able) all at once, calling back to the sound of Common Dreads.

Of the new songs, “The Void Stares Back,” featuring Wargasm, stands out for its mix of heavy sound and staple Enter Shikari lyrical weirdness with the refrain: “Did I mention I’m from another dimension?” The energizing buildup of “Bull” with Cody Frost’s distinct voice plants itself in your head and refuses to leave. AViVA’s lyrics on the straightforward “STRANGERS” hit hard with the lines: “Say no regrets, no guarantees / But how could you do that when you were with me?” while “Losing My Grip” sprinkles in the kind of drum and bass beats that are pretty much expected somewhere in an Enter Shikari album.

Alternate sessions of “It Hurts,” “Bull, “(Pls) Set Me on Fire,” “A Kiss for the Whole World,” and “Bloodshot” round out the tracklist, giving some extra listening fuel for the more hardline fans. But for those who don’t nerd out that far, these songs are placed at the end of the tracklist, giving the beginning over to the catchier new material.

Dancing on the Frontline is a satisfying addition to last year’s release, giving more than a little new material to hype us up for the band’s current tour.

Photo credit: Spotify