After seeing Cartel play live several times in NYC and DC, I rushed out to pick up this EP. Their live shows combine a wash of beautiful, melodic guitar noise with unique rhythms resulting in some truly amazing tunes. I love the intensity of Cartel's live performances and I was equally impressed with the quality and creativity of their work in the studio, especially considering this EP is entirely SELF-RELEASED! Cartel's sound is uniquely their own, but I would recommend "Safety in Numbers" for anyone who likes the darkly melodic sounds of Doves, Elbow, and Interpol and for anyone who supports truly independent music. This is only a taste of what Cartel has to offer; I can't wait to hear more!