Word is that Hokei have a reputation for being the best live band in Poland. Having not heard them or any other Polish bands live, especially not in their native country, I’m in no position to judge, but then nor am I in any position to argue.
What I do have is a CD in a poly bag with a sticker on bearing the band’s name and a press release. Sadly, neither contains a track listing. Still, a bit of research reveals that I’m listening to an album called ‘Don’t Go,’ and my ears tell me it’s really rather good.
Stop / start rhythms and a nagging interloping guitar motif build tension at the start of the first track before breaking out the rockout riffology. There’s plenty of that to be found here, and Hokei display a talent for surging instrumental rock. In between, they explore myriad forms and styles: The dislocated shouty-post punk of ‘Zodiak’ contrasts sharply with the ambient electrokraut of ‘Ho’, and spiralling psychedelic goth-tinged shoegaze of ‘Koty Psy’ sounds quite unlike anything else committed to tape. Elsewhere, elements of jazz and bendy math-rock are blended into the mix to intriguing effect. Innovation and technical competence combine to create something that’s thrillingly different.
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Hokei Online
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