For a band that only formed in 2019, Hello Mary demonstrate an impressive range of ideas on their upcoming album, EMITA OX, which is set to drop on the 13th September via Frenchkiss Records. The album kicks off with “Float” featuring twisting guitar riffs, dreamy vocal harmonies, and a blend of rumbling bass tones with experimental electronics. These elements, paired with pounding drums, craft a dynamic and modern grunge vibe. The record is bold, adventurous, and deliberately chaotic with tracks like “0%” showcasing rich bass tones and a fearless approach to experimentation. Stella’s raw, banshee-like shrieks culminate in a noise-filled, vibraphone-accented finale. Their latest single “Three” brings a buoyant, catchy sound steeped in ’90s nostalgia, likely to attract a new wave of fans. On EMITA OX, Hello Mary dive deeper into heavy distortion and psychedelic dreamscapes with the album’s intricate production reflecting their evolving influences, from Elliott Smith and Radiohead to experimental post-rock bands like Black Midi and Swans.
“Down My Life” opens with a thunderous kick drum and warped pianos, blending with Straight’s angelic vocals before transitioning into darker, more angular bass lines which really change the mood of the song altogether. “Knowing You” starts with a laid-back vibe perfect for rainy afternoons before it expands with fuzzy guitars and ethereal vocals. “Heavy Sleeper” offers a lullaby-like interlude, leading into the more experimental “Footstep Misstep” characterised by shuffling drums and a playful energy. Throughout the album the vocal harmonies stand out, adding a cohesive and distinctive flair to their alt-rock anthems and psychedelic soundscapes. “Courtesy” delivers a more subdued, emotionally resonant moment, while the interlude “Hiyeahi” introduces atmospheric electronic textures and vocal samples, flowing into “Bubble” a track that begins with delicate guitar work and builds into an intense crescendo. The album wraps up with “Everything We Do,” which shifts towards a folk-rock sensibility, offering a reflective close to the journey. With its depth and complexity, EMITA OX invites listeners to explore its layers and discover new details with each spin.
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