Glimmer by The House Flies: EP Review
After originally making a name for themselves as members of grunge-metal act Murnau in recent years, The House Flies sees the group focus on a more haunted direction as they introduce themselves with their debut EP ‘Glimmer’. Clocking in right at around 17 minutes in runtime, immediately The House Flies come out hot and create a deep and complex atmosphere that runs clearly from start to finish.
‘Hounds’ kicks off the EP. A quiet, haunting beginning leads into a persistent, dark rock arrangement. Expressive voices enter, subdued yet distinct. As the song nears its halfway point, the simmering bursts over with guitar licks and begging notes, making it a good start. ‘Sequin’ seems more alive without sacrificing any of the moods produced by Hounds. It’s a remake of a song Alex wrote 20 years ago for a prior band, and it’s benefited from being revisited. It moves with a light swagger and a catchy beat, and it’s unquestionably a highlight. ‘Blue’ is delicate and charming in its own twisted way. It’s raw and experimental, with a sluggish bottom and outlandish high notes. What struck out the most was its image-filled lyrics, which fans of the Twin Peaks soundtrack would approve of. ‘Apple’ concludes the EP. It begins creepily, with passionate vocals and conflicting layers of guitar, percussion, and bass. As the song proceeds, siren-like keys and an increasing sensation of pressure develop.
The House Flies have brought the vintage sound straight up to date with this EP without sacrificing any of its fundamentals.
KEEP IN TOUCH:
INSTAGRAM | BANDCAMP | YOUTUBE
Photo credits: Alex Riggen
Review by: Paul Woodman
