Hailing from Portland, with all its fine history of dirty and noisy music, Hoaxed are a trio with more than a few tricks up their sleeve. ‘Death Knocks’ is their sophomore release and, having not heard their debut, I entered this tiny chapel not knowing what to expect.
Backed with a release via Relapse, it’s immediately clear from opener ‘Where The Seas Fall Silent’ that this band know how to hang things in front of your face and make you, metaphorically, grab at them. This is both captivating and expansive – as the impressive drum pounding display holds forth exquisite, almost classic rock, guitar progressions and the full-throttle centrepiece – the exemplary vocal performance of guitarist Kat Keo, ably backed by newcomer April Dimmock.
This is gothic, doomy and melodic, with expertly layered vocals that sit within an overall mix of mournful proportions. This is one of those records that is produced with emotional charge as the primary target – rather than anything to do with flashing lights, faders or sample rates. This just sounds internal, weighty and bewitching.
Short songs and a shade over 30 minutes run length make sure that this doesn’t outstay its welcome. It is, I will admit, a genre I can lose my way with a bit sometimes – and have been known to during the odd Windhand record (who Hoaxed probably sound the nearest to). Here, however, I felt that the ebb and flow of the record washed through like the winter’s rains. Rains that you trudge through because where you head is better than what you have left behind.
Best tracks include the almost Cult-like swagger of ‘Kill Switch’, the mysterious haunting qualities (including the odd terrifying scream and hysterical cackle) of ‘Wretched’ and ‘The Family’ and the faintly pop-like anthems sewn tightly within ‘The Fallen’.
A recommended listen if you enjoy having your doom served to you by Lady Macbeth.
Best paired with: lace cuffs, dark chocolate and a twilight walk around a graveyard.
Reviewed by Jaff.
hoaxed – death knocks is out now on relapse records.
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