Australian alt-rockers RedHook released their stunning second album Mutation on November22.
The synth intro to Pyromaniac is funky as is the riff that joins it.
Emmy Mack’s vocals are cool, flipping between the hip-hop style verses to a more soaring chorus. The hook “I’ve already burned the bridges back there like a pyromaniac” is catchy.
Breaking Up With is way too catchy. It focuses on the end of relationships and breaking up with yourself. It is extremely infectious and even has some jazzy elements.
The more screamy vocals on Hexxx are really good.
Bomb.com is an absolute banger. It’s also extremely relatable to anyone who’s experienced sexism in their job.
The rapid delivery of the lyrics shows Emmy’s anger perfectly. It’s one of the more consistently heavy tracks on the album and it’s my favourite, as I find it extremely relatable.
Hurts Like Hell’s drums are extremely prominent and it works really well to ground the insanely poppy track. The vocal delivery and lyrical positioning are absolutely sick and practically every line is one that will live rent free in your head. The breakdown is really cool too.
Closer Tourist is really well written. The analogy of relating an ex to a tourist is extremely interesting. It’s so well written – as can be said for the entire album.
One thing you’ll find with RedHook is just how infectious their sound is. No matter what mood you’re in, just a quick listen to any of their back catalogue will have you in a better mood and Mutation is hands down a perfect example of this.
There are three guest features on the album – with Vanna, Holding Absence and Alpha Wolf all lending their talents. The guest features work really well, particularly Alpha Wolf on Cannibal as the vocals contrast perfectly.
At times I get some Ash Costello vibes from Emmy’s vocal delivery, particularly in Hot Tub and Hexxx.
The drums throughout are perfectly balancing out each track, providing the background fills and even taking their own stand out moments well. The guitar work throughout is brilliant as are the basslines. The synths fit in everywhere they’re used.
The album has something for everyone, it’s angsty, with heavier elements throughout as well as an infectious pop sound to have you dancing around non-stop.
I’d recommend Mutation to any music fan as something they will definitely get something out of.
Despite coming out towards the end of November, Mutation was worth the wait and sails right into my albums of 2024.