In Evil Hour
Permanent Record
Snayle Records
Punk bands are all about being shouty and thrashy chords I hear you say. Well yes, sometimes – but also resoundingly no too. For those not in the know In Evil Hour ply their trade not only by being shouty (Alice Hour snarls with the best of them) but they also rock out with some very cool well thought out melodic song writing. They pen lyrics that go beyond pricking social conscience, often tugging at heartstrings too. Now for a lucky few at Rebellion festival last year (and again this) we got to see another side to the band as they played an acoustic set, and they blew everyone away. The stripped down arrangements were brilliantly thought out and delivered with real passion. But what of Alice? Well it turns out Rebellion uncovered a true gem (or another side to one). Her vocals were quite astounding. She sang with eye opening clarity and a lovely tone. She made those already sincere lyrics just sound so much more personal. It was goosebump inducing to watch. ‘Permanent Record’ is the committing to record an album of In Evil Hour stripped back and acoustic and it is absolutely fantastic, recreating and building on those acoustic live shows. The big addition is a cellist called Buffy who slays it (sorry-not sorry!). The record keeps the live vibe by not going for an overblown production. It hits a sweet spot between punk and folk making it a hugely enjoyable listen. For those moments when you want something a little more chill but still meaningful this is a sure fire winner.
https://www.facebook.com/InEvilHour
Review by Gary Trueman