Bristol four-piece HAAL surprised us with their debut EP 'Back to Shilmarine'. This powerhouse band is made up of Alfie Hay (guitars & vocals), Ethan Jones (synthesizers, sampling & backing vocals), Joe Collins (bass, synths & backing vocals) and Joe Frost (drums & percussion).
Released on Babka Records, “Back to Shilmarine” is an impressive five-song debut EP. From the get-go, HAAL doesn't mess around, unleashing an assault on the senses within the first seconds of their first song, “Vinculum.” They try to make an immediate impact and destabilize you as a listener. With words written by Nathan Richards and rigorously delivered by Hay, this record embodies Frank Black's style of storytelling. This isn't a comfortable listen, as they explore the idea of despair, and there's a shout-out on “Platform 1, 18:19” to prove it.
There are Pixies-esque quiet and loud moments throughout the EP, and you never know where it's going to take you next. HAAL has been described as post-rock, industrial, experimental, and alternative rock. Listen to “A²” and “Platform 1, 18:19” and you'll also get his atmospheric, grunge tones. Jones uses sampling and radio manipulation in the band's distortion and feedback-filled sound, reminiscent of Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins at their peak. Furthermore, in “Platform 1, 18:19” you can hear the extraordinary vocals by Alfie, which shows a truly Adam's apple performance.
“To Be A Machine” and “Blank Sleep” both feature additional vocals by Esther Pollock along with Hay. Together, they capture an eerie and haunting atmosphere until the end of the EP. As things get creepier and weirder, the band steadily builds up until they reach a thought-provoking, heavy, ambient final song. In my mind, Manic Street Preachers' late spokesperson and bandmate Richie Edwards would have loved this band dearly. Ritchie mapped out every aspect of early Manics and wanted it to be more than just music. he wanted art. Differentiating yourself in today's music industry is more difficult than ever, but HAAM has done just that. Because it's so raw and authentic, HAAL has achieved a completely unique sound in its own way. HAAL is a creative force that is immeasurable, full of honesty and imagination. I can't rate this EP highly enough.
Track list:
1. Vinculum
2.A²
3. Platform 1 18:19
4. To Be a Machine
5. Blank sleep