Shrouded in reverb, awash with echo, and propelled along by a pounding rhythm section of throbbing bass and frenetic drums, the new single from Brisbane-based quintet Ancient Channels is impactful and immediate.
Somehow wispy and thin yet, at the same time, solid and steadfast, Hex Beat combines shoegaze textures with post-punk urgency and agitation, and undeniable, unequivocal pop sensibilities. All this results in a tune that’s instantly unforgettable and will tattoo itself onto your brain faster than you can say “jazzmaster”.
The real star of the show here though, is the vocals. Ethereal, spectral, creepy, yet comforting, the performance is quintessential nu-gaze – plus a little goth rock vibes, for good measure. They are balanced just right in the mix – unlike a lot of shoegaze recordings – which is refreshing and compelling. (Shout out to the band’s bassist Cameron Smith, who’s also behind the desk).
There’s a cinematic scope to the composition that gives us an idea of the band’s ambitions – they are clearly not afraid to aim big. On what is only their third single off upcoming LP Static Spirit they sound absolutely huge. We reckon this Meanjin five piece are on course fir big things. Remember, you heard it hear first.
The band appears to gig rather regularly, and we’d suggest that seeing them live seems like a very good idea – if you’re in the Brissy area, do it if you can. Fans of Slowdive and My Bloody Valentine as well as more recent acts like Warpaint and our own Mannequin Flowers are sure to find plenty to love.
We’ll very much look forward to hearing that forthcoming album later this month. August 21st, to be precise.
Written by Kinda Grizzly
