Every fan loves rarities. Since their 2000 Sparrow Records debut Shimmer, Luna Halo has faded into the independent music underground. In 2002, the band released a self-titled EP independently, showcasing four tasty new cuts. But since that release, most fans have only been able to quench their thirst for new music by seeing them live in concert.

Last year, the passionate rock quartet linked up with England-based B Unique Records to release a brand new EP overseas. The band recorded a three-song demo in their garage and sent the tracks to the record company to serve as a preview for more polished recordings. The folks at B Unique felt the demos were sufficient enough and pressed them as is into the New Drug EP. The end result? Three great songs at the poorest quality money can buy.

The title cut shows a little more angst for Barlowe and company than many regular listeners may be ready for. An edgy electric guitar riff fuels this rock track about a relationship gone sour. But the charm of the New Drug EP is the following track, "Over The Edge," a passionate rocker that sounds slightly more polished than either of the other two recordings. Finally, a Radiohead-esque finale is offered in the almost incoherently-versed "Half A World Away," a unique song that doesn't go down easy, but when it does, is a pleasure that fits well with the other Luna remedies on this disc.

This EP is a rare find and a gem for the diehard Luna Halo fan. But be warned that the biggest downfall of the EP is the quality of the recordings. While it may sound like a bootleg or an overplayed copy of a copy of a tape cassette, Nathan Barlowe's intense songwriting shines through on this happy accident. We can only wait in great anticipation for the next installments from Luna Halo.

- Review date: 1/27/04, written by John DiBiase of Jesusfreakhideout.com