Huron Lines – No Way Out
In the future, I’m sure, governments of really wealthy states will set aside a fund for the evil geniuses of the country. They’ll make sure that each time the budget is drawn up, there’s enough money in it. And they’ll make sure that the people who receive it have enough to lead a comfortable existence.
Why bother? Because even evil geniuses can turn, gradually, into not-so-evil, slightly mischievous and, finally, into respectable citizens. That’d be a tragedy. You’d lose people like the ones who play in Hurron Lives to the lure of healthy, balanced living.
Without enough financial support, the evil geniuses will have to get real jobs. They might end up on television refereeing stupid karaoke contests or on some mind-numbing cooking shows. They might even have to start writing songs for vapid pop stars just to pay the bills. Is this the world we want?
Huron Lines’ Soundgarden-inspired “No Way Out” is powerful and, yes, catchy stoner rock. It’s heavy enough and unburdened by too much ornamentation to make it sound mysterious, surprising, or evil. This music, frankly, sounds like the work that someone might produce if they were forced to hide out in the woods because of some terrible crime they committed. Should the government support this? With songs like this, sure!
Daphne – Vuelve a nacer
I’m sorry to tell all of you pessimists, but rock n’ roll is safe and stands to remain represented for an awfully long time going forward. And I’m not willing to change my opinion regardless of how many fabricated pop stars or AI-powered rockers that record companies think of throwing our way or pushing up the charts. How do I know? I’m basing my opinion on getting to listen to bands like Spain’s own Daphne.
Why does it matter? Because the world needs thrills and always will. Rock’ n’ roll is one of those thrills that exists on a base level right along with moving at a quick speed, standing at a great height, or, dare I say it, falling in love. Sure, a computer may understand in theory what each of these means. But would you like to drive at breakneck speed, or would you prefer to read about what it feels like?
Daphne’s “Vuelve a nacer” is pure exciting rock n’ roll music, and it doesn’t need any other excuse for being this way. It’s meant to deliver instant enthusiasm and even make you ask some questions about yourself. What exactly is wrong with you if the dynamism of the loud guitars and thundering drums doesn’t move you? What exactly could have got you so down that some chilli-flavoured rock tune doesn’t make you flinch? As long as these sorts of sounds still produce an effect, we’re fine, and the music will be well represented.
