2023-09-11 07:00:32
(c) Christian Lach / Angus Ying
They can now justifiably be described as a local institution: they have been dedicated to this since 2006 Hidden By The Grapes their very own interpretation of alternative sounds, which flirt with emo, post rock and noise, among other things, and now on their fifth studio album. „Opus“ can be summarized as an inventory of the last four years, focusing on, among other things, Brexit, a pandemic and the loss of faith in humanity.
In addition, there is something bubbling under the linguistic surface, at least with a little wink, as the opening “The Awful German Language” illustrates. Can, should one sing in German at all? This is philosophized to rousing, emotionally charged sounds that clatter at just the right moment. Then finally the powerful hook comes through. In fact, the trio uses the German language more often than ever and even switches to the dialect, as in the video foreshadowing “Heart opens”. Noisy bubbling and a Jew’s harp form a wonderfully bizarre symbiosis and prepare for a leisurely and oppressive descent.
Also strong is “Your missing love kills me”, which is out of the ordinary with its semi-ballad-like reduction and plows over everything with a lot of emo. “Hey Boris!” also packs a punch, but here it’s the work towards a climax in the best post-rock style that entertains. The Twilight Sad send their regards as the nervous energy finally gives way to the voluminous chorus. Whatever this Boris wants. “Auf den” also exudes pure fascination and gradually transforms post rock into noise. Here it is a single, powerful eruption that turns the emotional balance upside down. No big words are needed for that.
Although their latest prank is time-critical, time seems to have passed Hidden By The Grapes without a trace. After all, their sound, which is full of 90s references, seems fresher than ever, lives and breathes wholesome individuality. “Opus” attempts linguistic balancing act and other surprises, surprises with joy and at the same time demonstrates patience in expansive doses. Big hymns, little reflections, untapped emotions and the almost constant aha effect consolidate the Graz band at what is now a familiar high level.
Rating: 8/10
Available from: September 15, 2023
Available via: Kruse Kontrol Digital
Website: www.hiddenbythegrapes.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hiddenbythegrapes
Category: Local Bands, Magazin, Reviews
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