Forming a fair opinion of a band based on a three-song EP is nearly impossible. However, on what could be gleaned by their debut effort 3 , Inc. seems to have the allure to make an impact in the electronic/funk genre. Groove-laced guitars, infectious vocals (reminiscent of early Prince days), and  smart poppy songwriting testifies of Inc.’s potential. Their catchier tracks (“Heart Crimes,” “Swear”) could very well get a million hits on iTunes, or on the other end may fly under the radar. Either way, there’s no questioning the LA-based duo deserves this 4AD release.

The Opening track, “Swear,” kicks the record off with a soulful piano riff and punchy snare samples, and as far as the skeleton of the song goes, that’s pretty much it. However, something about Inc.’s vocal writing makes the track oddly interesting. Layers of drum samples and synthesisers lucidly peak in and out; when I first heard the song, my initial thought was, I can’t believe I like this. It’s sparse, but as catchy as anything I’ve heard in electronic music.

Following suit, “Heart Crimes” sits on a brutally head-bobbing yet loungy beat, complimented again by a solid vocal effort. It’s about as catchy as Passion Pit, but it’s got soul as well. However, ending the record is the not-as-impressive tune “Millionairess,” which aside from a witty track title, only made the first two tracks stand out more.

Despite the last track, 3 is a surprisingly cool EP that can stay on repeat more than once. With a debut on the label that houses heavy hitters like Bon Iver and Iron and Wine, Inc. put together an impressive batch of songs that not only showcases their writing ability, but could be the perfect segway for an LP release.

(4AD, 17-19 Alma Road, London, SW18 1AA)