Album Review: Hiroe – Wield (Pelagic Records)

Emerging from the American post-rock underground, Hiroe will release their debut full-length album ‘Wield’ on June 20th via Pelagic Records.

I have been obsessed with this band ever since I heard the single Tides, which is one of several that appear on this debut album. An obsession that bloomed quickly because of Hiroe’s immensely listenable post rock ways. Now, having heard the full thing (multiple times), I can honestly say it’s one of my favourite releases of the year. Sure, post rock is one of my favourite genres, but it suffers from over-saturation, and I am as exhausted as others are by the ‘same old, same old’. Then, along comes a band like this.

If you’ve ever heard the statement that ‘music has the power to move you’ and never understood it, you will now.

The album begins with The Calm and it’s an apt title, even if it comes with shade and a slight sense of danger. Although that could just be because it has moments that remind me of the video game Outer Wilds. Hiroe’s approach is laidback, and the instrumental melodies leave an impression.

However, it’s the following Tides that truly sees this album burst into life. A gobsmacking listen that erupts with doomy intensity, Hiroe have never sounded heavier, but as the track goes on it, it evolves in dramatic and captivating post rock style. It’s a staggering showcase of instrumental post rock, and a personal favourite. Although I will admit to changing my mind about my favourite track on the record pretty much every time I listen to it. It’s that good, and even more proof comes in the form of the clever, charismatic, exciting, interesting, detailed, and beautifully intense, Collider. The guitar work is outstanding, but it’s the rising melody moments that will have the hairs standing up straight on the body.

Another epic length effort that feels like nothing as the richness of Hiroe’s sound washes over the mind comfortably. This is what happens when a band hits the peak of their powers and delivers something with a monumental amount of feeling. Time means nothing, and an album as deep and detailed as this, flies by in a blur.

Elegant melody, powerful heavy bursts, distinctive feeling, and so much more, Dancing at the End of the World continues to make this an album everyone must hear. Alongside the daring progressive touches that make The Crush such an imaginative listen. Each is so clever, but just as importantly, each is enthralling.

Honestly, it’s one of my favourite albums of the year and there was no truer sign than the disappointment I felt as it reached its climax. Even if that climax is freaking mind-blowing. It’s I’ve Been Waiting for You All My Life and it’s a brilliant punch to the gut. As post-rock as it comes, but from Hiroe’s unique perspective, the connection made to the listener is at its strongest here. I love it, and I think you will to, especially if you enjoy post rock in its most vibrant form. Debut’s really don’t come much stronger than this.

Hiroe – Wield Track Listing:

1. The Calm
2. Tides
3. Collider
4. Dancing at the End of the World
5. The Crush
6. I’ve Been Waiting for You All My Life

Links

Bandcamp | Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pelagic Records