HOLLOWED

Here we have some stunning post metal, somewhat adventurous all the way through. The moniker HELIUM HORSE FLY is representing a quartet hailing from Belgium. And this is their sophomore album, released in 2019, which means leaving a gap of 6 years behind. Well worth the wait! Stéphane Dupont is mainly responsible for the compositions, additionally will care for guitars and keyboards. Also remarkable of course, Marie Billy delivers some beautiful unique vocals, definitely avantgarde tinged, partially akin to Bjork or Courtney Swain maybe. Album title and cover illustration will give you a proper clue beforehand. This is atmospheric, tension-filled, albeit angular, dark mooded and heavy loaded too. Doesn't allow colors anymore for roundabout 50 minutes, boundless shades of grey in any case though.

It doesn't take long and you'll know that Marie's companions are experienced musicians, no doubt. Decorated with stirring vocals Happiness is establishing an irresistible wall of sound for some time. Dissolving towards the end, probably into happiness(?), as if they finally are able to free themselves from an unwanted embrace. Chapeau! Furthermore hypnotic bass lines are striking on Algeny, while Progeny comes partially infected with a chamber tinged orchestral flair. What a wondrous challenge! A sinister mood contradicted by incredible melodies. State of the art, technically unflawed, capturing your attention and concentration sooner or later.