The key to a band’s longevity is evolution. So it’s fitting that D.C./Baltimore outfit Birth (Defects)‘s latest song, “Macross,” is a sort of rebirth for the band. On it, they harness their trademark noise-punk tendencies into a more melodic post-punk vibe, a la Vaz, Scout Niblett, and Bauhaus.

“I think we want to write songs you can sing to. That are actually more than just loud,” writes Birth (Defects) vocalist Sean Gray, whose snarled crooning anchors the song’s brutal, driving rhythm. “‘Macross is a good example of a band wanting to go beyond just heavy or loud. We have a good grasp, especially with this album, on being melodic and not just a loud guitar band.”

But make no mistake, “Macross,” which is a nod to the 1982 sci-fi mecha anime of the same name, is heavy. When the doom and distortion kicks in, it hits like a crash of thunder.

“Macross” is being released tomorrow by Anathemata Editions as part of a special lathe-cut 7-inch and cassette box set called Dissumulate. $5 of each sale will go to the Southern Poverty Law Center. While the rest of the box-set contains B-sides, demos, and other of the band’s experimentations, Gray says “Macross” is a preview of the band’s new LP, which is set to release early next year on Reptilian Records.

You can order Birth (Defects)’s box set from Anathemata Editions here.