Album review overview: Hinds, The Dare and more
Dozens of new albums arrive at Maxazine’s editorial staff every week. There are way too many to listen to them all, let alone review them. It ensures that too many albums are left behind. And that’s a shame. That is why today we post an overview of albums that arrive at the editors in short reviews.
Hinds – Viva Hinds
The Spanish indie-rock duo Hinds proves with their fourth studio album “Viva Hinds” that adversity can lead to creative rebirth. Carlotta Cosials and Ana Perrote return after four tumultuous years, marked by lockdowns, band member departures, and the loss of their record label, with a refreshing energy. The album opens strongly with the track “Hi, how are you,” reflecting on the challenges the band has faced. The result is a richer, more layered sound without losing Hinds’ raw charm, thanks to collaborations with producer Pete Robertson and sound engineer Tom Roach. Highlights include “Boom Boom Back,” recorded in collaboration with Beck’s guest contribution, and “Stranger,” influenced by post-punk with Grian Chatten from Fontaines D.C. For the first time, the band experiments with Spanish-language tracks, adding an interesting dimension to their sound. “Viva Hinds” is a celebration of friendship and resilience. From the infectious energy of “Superstar” to the intimate atmosphere of “The Bed, The Room, The Rain and You,” they effortlessly move through various emotions and styles. Hinds not only prove they are resilient but also that they can grow as artists with this album. “Viva Hinds” is a triumphant return that will impress both fans and newcomers alike. (Anton Dupont) (8/10) (Lucky Number)
Vonavibe – Locked Up
Vonavibe is a Greek modern rock band formed in 2016. That year, this Greek power trio self-released the EP “Vol.1,” featuring three original tracks. In 2017, Vonavibe won the first prize in the best new band category, which earned them a contract with the label Panik Records. In 2018, Vonavibe released two singles for this label, titled “Come Undone” and “Run ‘n’ Hide – Live at Berlin.” In 2019, Vonavibe entered the studio to record their first full-length album, but this was significantly delayed when singer/guitarist Dyon had a motorcycle accident and needed nearly two years to recover. In 2023, the album finally saw the light of day under the title “Bleed To Life.” Now, the Greeks release “Locked Up,” an EP for their new record label Eclipse Records. This release features four cover songs. The album begins and ends with the track “Mad World” by Tears For Fears, with the closing version being instrumental. The other two tracks are “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd and “Bleed It Out” by Linkin Park. “Bleed It Out” is the standout track on this EP, surpassing the original in my opinion. It’s impressive how Dyon captures both Chester Bennington’s vocals and Mike Shinoda’s raps. We now eagerly await album number two from this talented Greek band. (Ad Keepers) (7/10) (Eclipse Records)
John Douglas – John Douglas
John Douglas, known from the Scottish band Trashcan Sinatras, presents an intimate and pure listening experience with his self-titled debut album. The eleven tracks, recorded at Kyoti Studio Glasgow under the guidance of producer Mark Freegard, offer a perfect mix of new material and reinterpretations of Trashcan Sinatras classics. Douglas’ powerful songwriting truly shines in this stripped-down setting. Without overdubs or unnecessary frills, he reveals the essence of his compositions. Highlights include the nostalgic “Oranges & Apples” and the emotionally charged “I Just Want To Go Home.” A special moment is Douglas’ rendition of the Prefab Sprout classic “We Let The Stars Go,” which he approaches with respect and a personal touch. Fans of introspective folk and indie will be drawn to Douglas’ honest and direct approach. This album not only marks the beginning of Douglas’ solo career but also serves as a bridge between his past with Trashcan Sinatras and his future as a solo artist. With his rich experience and undeniable talent, John Douglas delivers a debut that feels both familiar and refreshingly new—a must-listen for lovers of authentic songwriting. (Norman van den Wildenberg) (7/10) (Reveal Records)
The Dare – What’s Wrong With New York?
The Dare is the new pseudonym of Harrison Patrick Smith. He previously made music under the name Turtlenecked, which earned him a kind of cult status and a cult following. After deciding to stop with Turtlenecked, he made a fresh start as The Dare and recently released his debut album. The decision for this restart was driven by the single “Girls,” which he had already played live during Turtlenecked shows. The Dare is associated with indie sleaze, along with plenty of electronic elements. It’s an album with decent beats but also enough moments where you wonder: What am I actually listening to? At just under thirty minutes, it’s a fun little detour that you could just as easily skip. (Rik Moors) (5/10) (UMG Recordings)
Eric Devries – Traveler’s Heart
Eric Devries has released his fifth solo album, “Traveler’s Heart,” reaffirming his position as one of the most exciting singer-songwriters in the Netherlands. This acoustic masterpiece, the follow-up to his previous album “Song & Dance Man,” is an intimate journey through the life of a travelling musician. Recorded with his Song & Dance Band, the album offers an authentic, live feel that captures the essence of Devries’ musicality. “Traveler’s Heart” explores the complexities of a nomadic existence, drawing from personal experiences and literary influences. Songs like “Shadow Of A Man” and “Hit The Road Running” showcase his ability to combine narrative lyrics with captivating melodies. The inclusion of guest contributions from Iain Matthews (with whom he also plays in the band) and Fay Lovsky adds extra depth and color to the already rich arrangements. Also noteworthy is “Miss Holly Golightly,” featuring violinist Joost van Es. Devries seamlessly weaves elements of folk, bluegrass, and blues into every track. His vocals and thoughtful lyrics make “Traveler’s Heart” an album that reveals new layers with every listen. For fans of authentic, narrative-driven songwriting. (Norman van den Wildenberg) (7/10) (Coast to Coast)
