In Amber - Hercules & Love Affair (2022)

ideated from: some new releases I’ve been into lately

HLA is mainly a producer named Andy Butler. He’s worked with lots of artists to craft club-friendly hits and ambient and house. But this new one seems to have found another gear.

Featuring a lot of vocals from the amazing ANOHNI–formerly of Antony And The Johnsons–contrasting with Butler’s own Joy-Division-impression vocals, the set features one strong song after another. There’s a lot less club music and a lot more gothy, snarling doom rock. But it can’t help but retain a real beauty and grace underneath.

A favorite of mine so far this year, for sure.

Tracks I Liked

You’ve Won This War - interesting lyric, affecting delivery

Christian Prayers - full-on rock more than other tracks here