Album review overview: Huis, D.A.D. 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.
Huis – In The Face Of The Unknown
“In The Face Of The Unknown” is the fourth album by the Canadian band Huis. The band blends melodic rock, AOR, and progressive rock. With no fewer than four keyboardists, they are crucial to the rich sound and beautiful melodies. As expected, there are plenty of keyboard tones, along with alternating acoustic and electric guitar parts. At times, the guitar work is compelling and emotional. The bass and/or drums occasionally take the foreground on this album. There are numerous transitions between rocking and minimalist sections, with smooth shifts in volume, even during significant contrasts. Sylvain Descôteaux’s voice complements the music, delivering noticeable emotion. Sometimes, the (layered) vocals can sound a bit sweet. The sound is well-balanced across the headphones, allowing the nuances to shine. “Failing,” a duet with Éloïse Joncas, is a highlight; fans already know how well her voice blends with Sylvain’s. This beautiful closer ends rather unexpectedly. The eight tracks are well-structured, offering plenty to listen to. (Esther Kessel-Tamerus) (8/10) (Unicorndigital)
D.A.D. – Speed Of Darkness
D.A.D., also known as Disneyland After Dark, can be seen as Denmark’s counterpart to bands like Faster Pussycat, L.A. Guns, and Hanoi Rocks. Their blues-inspired sleaze rock also recalls bands like Aerosmith and The Black Crowes. To mark their 40th anniversary, D.A.D. has released their 13th (double) album, “Speed Of Darkness.” Since their previous release, “A Prayer For The Loud” (2019), D.A.D. has written 40 songs in five years, with 14 making it onto this (double) album. The best tracks include the rocking “1st, 2nd & 3rd,” the Aerosmith-like ballad “Head Over Heels,” and the uptempo rocker “Everything Is Gone Now.” Fans of D.A.D.’s earlier twelve albums can confidently add “Speed Of Darkness” to their collection. It’s not surprising, but it delivers what fans expect. (Ad Keepers) (7/10) (AFM Records)
Lars Danielsson, Verneri Pohjola & John Parricelli – TRIO
A special setting calls for special music, and that’s exactly what you get with “TRIO,” the new album by bassist Lars Danielsson, trumpeter Verneri Pohjola, and guitarist John Parricelli. Recorded in the wooden salon of Château Palmer, a prestigious Bordeaux winery, this album exudes unmistakable calm and warmth. It’s fascinating how these three musicians, who barely knew each other before the recording, found such natural chemistry. Danielsson’s melodic bass lines provide a perfect foundation for Pohjola’s velvety trumpet—at times so airy it resembles a flute—and Parricelli’s tasteful guitar work. The music balances between chamber music and Nordic jazz, with a melancholic undertone fitting the serene environment. Highlights include the atmospheric “La Calme Au Château” and a stunning rendition of “La Chanson d’Hélène.” Only the Ellington cover, “Mood Indigo,” feels out of place among the predominantly European pieces. This album, the second collaboration between ACT and Château Palmer, proves that fine wine and refined jazz go hand in hand. (Jan Vranken) (8/10) (ACT Music)
The Bongo Hop – La Pata Cojo
The Bongo Hop, the project of French trumpeter and DJ Etienne Sevet, delivers exactly what you’d expect with “La Pata Cojo”: an infectious mix of Afro-Caribbean rhythms to chase away the cold. Expertly produced by Patchworks, the album sounds crisp and polished, featuring lively guitar parts and robust bass lines that immediately invite dancing. Sevet’s trumpet weaves smoothly through the arrangements, while various guest vocalists contribute authentic tropical vibes that fit seamlessly. The album offers an accessible fusion of cumbia, afrobeat, and jazzy elements, though it doesn’t take many musical risks. While the formula is familiar, it remains highly effective. For fans of Zouk and Afrobeat, this is a welcome release that promises a carefree evening of dancing. However, one might wish for a touch more surprise. (Elodie Renard) (7/10) (Underdog Records)
Du Blonde – Sniff More Gritty
Du Blonde returns with their new album, “Sniff More Gritty,” a record that fails to convince despite its impressive lineup of guest vocalists. The album features collaborations with big names such as Skin (Skunk Anansie), Laura Jane Grace (Against Me!), Paul Smith (Maximo Park), and Ross Millard (The Futureheads). Entirely self-produced, the album attempts to build on the sound of its predecessor, “Homecoming” (2021). While that album felt refreshing, “Sniff More Gritty” comes across as repetitive. The twelve tracks, totalling just 38 minutes, address themes like toxic relationships and the music industry but lack the urgency to truly resonate. Though songs like “Next Big Thing” (featuring Skin) and the piano ballad “Out Of A Million” hold some interest, most of the album settles into mediocrity. Du Blonde’s glam-punk swagger feels tired, and the production lacks impact. Even the guest musicians cannot elevate the album. Overall, “Sniff More Gritty” is a disappointing addition to Du Blonde’s discography, earning just a 6 out of 10. (Anton Dupont) (6/10) (Deamon TV)
