The Metal Hearts’ second album Socialize has a steady, brooding urgency that makes for a not entirely comfortable listen, but it is compelling all the same. The stark, simple sound of Anar Badalov’s and Flora Wolpert-Checknoff’s guitars is clearly influenced by Cat Power, and is always underpinned by their reliable drum-machine. Occasionally things build up to create a denser, more enveloping sound, recalling the weightier moments of Mogwai’s Rock Action LP (check out Mountain Song on the band’s myspace page and see what I mean). Flora’s voice seems to be more prominent than Anar’s, though they mostly sing in unison. This adds warmth to arrangements that might sometimes feel a little structurally exposed.
Amidst all this bleakness, the title track stands out for its major key melody (at least in the chorus) and soothing, delicate vocals. It’s a great introduction to the The Metal Hearts, and you can download it right here…
metalheartsmusic.com / Myspace
Hamish.
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