HTRK: Venus in Leo Vinyl LP

Could I kiss you at midnight, and we could hang out sometime? Venus In Leo is the long-awaited fourth album from Melbournes HTRK (Im not new to this band by any means, but I feel like I should let you know, dear reader, that I pronounce it “H-T-R-K,” not Hate Rock like some other people in the Lab office and probably the band members themselves). Venus In Leo is a return to the guitar-based sound of the intoxicating Work, Work, WorkLP but incorporates the dubby microbeats and cosmic atmosphere that made Psychic 9-5 so easy to drink. It seems the band have absorbed the expertise lent to Psychic 9-5 by producer Nathan Corbin (Zebrablood, Blazer Sound System, Excepter) and cracked on without missing a beat. The sense of space in these tracks is astounding; its like each parts been meticulously carved down to its essence, hung to dry and reassembled in a vacuum. Its all draped in Jonnine Standishs syrupy, sobering, no-bullshit vocals- the magic ingredient in HTRKs sound. Imagine my delight to find both Mentions and Dying Of Jealousy here, two amazing singles which were teased what seems like ages ago I only thing I could want for is that their B-sides be included (alright, lets not get greedy!). Other highlights are Dream Symbol, the fatalistic New Years Day and tender coda New Years Eve, and the title track. Venus In Leo feels like a very grown-up album for a band thats been through a hell of a lot of shit in 16 years (moving continents twice, the suicide of founding member Sean Stewart) with a lot to reflect on, and were eternally grateful for the privilege to bear witness to it. Black vinyl pressinghoused in gatefold jacket with full album lyrics and download code, highly recommended.

• blackvinyl pressing
• housed in gatefold jacket with spot gloss accents
• digital download included
• limited edition
• music label: Ghostly International2019

reviewed bylaughable butane bob 09/2019

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