Sparse guitars, raw melodies, and gritty vocals best describe R. Ring’s debut release Fallout & Fire. The collaboration between Kelley Deal (The Breeders) and Mike Montgomery (Ampline) has birthed a lo-fi two-song record that employs a “less is more” philosophy.

Side A features the title track “Fallout & Fire,” which delivers a droning guitar riff as Deal’s original vocal style goes on about waiting for the other side. Flip over to Side B and experience a totally different sound. The track “See” is a high-octane guitar-driven tune featuring Montgomery’s vocals. Deal occasionally pipes in, and the parts where they harmonize keep the track from unraveling into chaos.

There is nothing polished about this record, as it gives the feel of two friends sitting around and enjoying a jam session. The two-song record is a nice introduction to the duo’s music, which treats the listener to their raw sounds. Don’t hold your breath for a full-length album because these two are in no hurry to go in that direction.

(Misra Records, no address provided)