SINGLE REVIEW: Hidden Youth - Vignette
Hidden Youth's 'Vignette' hits the ground running, a debut single that immediately grabs your attention. This Leeds-based band, a collective of experienced musicians from the likes of Nai Harvest and Beecher, delivers a track that’s both energetic and intriguingly complex. It’s an uptempo blast, immediately infectious, with a melodic core that pulls you in.
The vocals are a real standout; raw and distinctive, they carry a certain art-rock flair that sets them apart. Imagine the drive of pop-punk instrumentation, but with vocals that veer into indie rock territory, and you’ll start to get the picture. There’s a definite echo of Art Brut in that delivery, a creative, almost spoken-word style that adds a unique layer to the sound.
When the chorus hits, it’s a full-on punk explosion, powered by epic gang vocals that are impossible to ignore. But Hidden Youth don’t just stick to one formula. They seamlessly weave in new wave-tinged backing vocals, adding a touch of unexpected romance to the mix. And just to keep things interesting, they throw in some post-hardcore snarls, bringing a raw intensity that keeps you on your toes.
There’s a moment of introspective emo, a brief pause for breath that brings to mind bands like PUP or Modern Baseball, but even that’s not straightforward. They layer in psychedelic textures, creating a sonic landscape that’s constantly shifting and evolving. This track is a masterclass in dynamic songwriting, never settling for a moment. Hidden Youth are clearly more than just another run-of-the-mill emo band. They’re mashing up genres with an originality that’s genuinely exciting. 'Vignette' is a track that refuses to rest, packed with twists and turns that keep you hooked from start to finish. They’ve crammed so much into this debut, and it leaves you genuinely excited to see what they’ll do next.
