Hali Gali #2 is a sonic snapshot of the thriving Belgrade alternative rock scene, showcasing ten vibrant bands that currently represent the collective. This compilation is an explosion of raw energy, creativity, and genre-bending innovation, pulling elements from punk, post-hardcore, shoegaze, noise rock, and indie music. From start to finish, Hali Gali #2 displays contemporary underground rock, where each track feels distinct yet connected, capturing the essence of an eclectic and unified scene.
The compilation opens with a bang. Ubili Su Batlera’s “Utorkom Ponekad” sets the tone with its aggressive post-hardcore sound. The track’s intricate math-rock guitar riffs intertwine with powerful, guttural screams, creating a chaotic and calculated soundscape. The drumming is an impressive whirlwind of intensity, providing an energetic backbone to the sharp guitar work and complex basslines. It’s an opener that grabs you by the collar and forces you to listen, establishing Hali Gali #2 as a compilation that demands your attention. Following the storm, Sitzpinker’s “Tren Sigurnosti” ushers in a more ethereal atmosphere with its shoegaze-influenced indie rock. Their jangly guitars drenched in reverb build mesmerizing layers of sound, alternating between dreamy, distant chord progressions and moments of raw, distorted noise. The vocals float delicately atop the mix, adding a soothing contrast to the grittier elements. It’s the kind of track that washes over you, immersing you in its tranquil yet turbulent world, a perfect example of their capacity to craft emotionally deep, immersive soundscapes. Sv. Pseta follows with “Ćuti, Ćutaću I Ja,” a track that blends post-punk and noise rock with such ease. The song oscillates between aggressive, dissonant sections and quieter, more introspective moments while the shifting dynamics make for a gripping listen, as the band expertly balances tension and release. The guitar work is dense and unpredictable, while the rhythm section adds heft, creating an atmosphere that feels confrontational and hypnotic. It’s a track that showcases the versatility of the local alternative scene, where bands are unafraid to experiment and push boundaries.
Vizelj brings a unique flavor to the compilation with “Crna Magija,” incorporating subtle elements of ethno music and ska into their alternative rock sound. The song’s groovy beats and off-kilter rhythms add a playful, danceable vibe, but the band doesn’t shy away from turning up the intensity during the choruses, where they unleash a wall of distorted sound. It’s a track that feels simultaneously lighthearted and heavy, merging disparate influences into something fresh and catchy. You can’t help but be pulled into the magic of their sound. The compilation takes another turn with “Želje” by Proto Tip, a band that offers a jangly, indie-infused track with touches of post-punk. The addition of a trombone adds a layer of sophistication, enhancing the band’s already impressive instrumentation. The vocals are calm and melodic, creating a laid-back yet emotionally charged atmosphere. Their ability to knit together vocal harmonies with intricate guitar work and subtle rhythmic nuances makes “Želje” one of the standout tracks of this marvelous comp. Gazorpazorp’s “Proleće” delivers a blast of straightforward alternative rock, reminiscent of the early 2000s Serbian alt-rock scene but with a modern twist. The band’s sound is rooted in familiar territory but elevated by tight orchestration and sharp hooks. You’ll notice how the guitars drive the song forward with infectious energy, while the rhythm section keeps everything locked in place, allowing the melodies to shine. It’s a catchy, radio-ready track that perfectly captures Gazorpazorp’s aptitude for crafting high-energy, melodic alt-rock anthems.
Daze offers a grungegaze-inflected “A Ti, Da Ti,” a song that blends grunge, shoegaze emo, and post-hardcore into a powerful package. The fuzzy, overdriven guitars create a wall of sound that envelops the listener, while the vocals oscillate between yearning and defiance. There’s a sense of raw emotion in the track that feels cathartic and infectious, with the band drawing from the darker side of alternative rock to create something heavy but melodic atmosphere. It’s the kind of track that pulls at your heartstrings while making you want to turn up the volume. Cactus Fields slows things down with “Izgubljenima,” a track that effortlessly transitions between soothing indie melodies and abrasive noise-rock segments. The band’s ability to shift from calm, serene moments to explosive, noisy breakdowns keeps the listener on edge, never quite knowing where the song will go next. It’s a perfect dynamic contrast, with the band using every tool in their arsenal to keep the listener hooked. The vocals, understated but impactful, add a layer of introspection to the track, making it a haunting and memorable entry on the compilation. Šajzerbiterlemon brings their signature post-punk edge to the table with “Dok Požar Okružuje Grad.” The guitars are gritty and angular, the basslines are punchy, and the drumming is relentless, creating a sense of urgency that drives the track forward. The band’s no-nonsense approach to songwriting makes “Dok Požar Okružuje Grad” one of the most energetic tracks on the compilation, with every element working in tandem to create both chaotic and controlled sound. Closing out the compilation is “Putem Mimoza” by Koikoi, a track that blends ethereal vocal harmonies with hypnotic, groove-laden instrumentation. The subtle incorporation of ethno elements adds a unique flair, while the carefully layered guitars and rhythmic patterns pull the listener into their expansive sonic universe. Koikoi’s ability to blend diverse influences into something cohesive and stunning makes them a fitting closer for this compilation, leaving the listener with a sense of wonder and curiosity about what’s next.
Hali Gali #2 is an exceptional demonstration of Belgrade’s alternative rock scene. Each band brings something distinct to the table, yet the compilation easily flows from one track to the next, capturing the spirit of the entire Hali Gali collective. Whether you’re a fan of previously mentioned music genres, Hali Gali #2 offers something for everyone, proving that Belgrade’s underground scene is alive and kicking. This wonderful compilation has been produced by Pop Depresija, Kišobran, and Hali Gali collective, and it’s available in all good record stores.
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