
Swiss folk-punk trio Hendricks The Hatmaker has made quite the impression with their new full-length album, Back In Style. The band, known for their indie folk sensibilities gradually evolved into a more aggressive folk punk/punk rock group, and this transition unquestionably appeals to them. While they already sounded good during their indie folk era, this folk punk transformation showcases their growth and evolution as musicians. The album begins with a bang, immediately engulfing listeners in the vibrant world of folk punk. The opening track sets the tone perfectly, and from that point on, Hendricks The Hatmaker takes us on a journey filled with catchy, anthemic, and powerful compositions. Each song is carefully crafted and decorated with self-reflective and socio-political lyrics that go beyond simple storytelling. The band’s ability to weave personal experiences and social commentary together is commendable.
One of the album’s standout qualities is its perfect song structure. Hendricks The Hatmaker demonstrates their creativity and talent by ensuring that every instrument has its own significant role. The generously distorted guitars perfectly match the vividly audible basslines, creating a ferocious sonic background. The energetic drumming, with its well-accentuated beats, breaks, fills, and other percussive acrobatics, adds to the overall intensity and drive of the songs. The flawlessly performed vocal harmonies highlight the entire album. Hendricks The Hatmaker has clearly mastered singing arts, creating a unified sound that perfectly suits the dynamic and energetic sonic background. It’s a pleasure to hear the interplay between the lead vocals and the harmonies, as they complement each other seamlessly. Back In Style showcases the band’s tremendous experience in songwriting. The compositions are tight and polished, with each track flowing smoothly into the next. There is a sense of cohesion throughout, despite the variety of topics being explored. Whether delving into introspective themes or addressing broader socio-political issues, Hendricks The Hatmaker keeps the listener engaged from start to finish.
While it’s difficult to review individual songs from Back In Style without mentioning their collective impact, it’s safe to say that the album is a solid and cohesive body of work. The raw energy and emotion that radiate from each track are palpable. From the blistering opener to the reflective ballads, Hendricks The Hatmaker showcases their versatility while maintaining consistent quality and intensity. It’s worth mentioning the exceptional musicianship displayed throughout the album. Each member of Hendricks The Hatmaker demonstrates skill and proficiency on their respective instruments. The chemistry between the band members is apparent, and their tight-knit performance makes for an engaging listening experience. The band’s ability to convey their passion and intensity is a testament to their dedication and talent. In conclusion, Back In Style is a testament to the band’s growth and evolution. Their transition from an indie folk band to a more aggressive folk punk/punk rock sound is a refreshing change that appeals to their musical sensibilities. The album showcases their experience in crafting catchy, anthemic, and powerful tracks, adorned with self-reflective and socio-political lyrics. With their exceptional musicianship and perfectly shaped song structures, Hendricks The Hatmaker made their mark with this latest release. Therefore, head to their Bandcamp page and grab this folk punk masterpiece on vinyl.
