Twelve Days in June returns with their fourth album, “Hiraeth”, a high-energy rock masterpiece inspired by 90s alternative music. Released on October 18, 2024, and produced by Ben Hirschfield, “Hiraeth” is a nostalgic and emotional ride exploring themes of loss, loneliness, and the meaning of life. With its powerful guitar sound, the album takes listeners on a journey through the ups and downs of life, tackling tough subjects like grief, isolation, and mortality, creating a relatable and impactful listening experience. The album starts with “Numb”, a high-energy track that explodes with intense guitars and passionate vocals. This powerful song captures the emotional pain of feeling disconnected and numb after experiencing a deep loss. With its raw intensity, “Numb” speaks directly to those who have known heartache, creating an instant connection and setting the emotional tone for the rest of the album. “Magic Hour” brings a welcome lift to the album with its catchy beat and memorable melody. This upbeat track explores the brief moments of joy that shine through even in tough times. With its infectious rhythm and thoughtful lyrics, “Magic Hour” is a standout song that captures the bittersweet feeling of finding happiness amidst the darkness, making it simple to sing along and connect with. “The Sea is a Wishing Well” is a mesmerizing track that drifts into a dreamy, atmospheric sound. This song evokes a deep sense of yearning and reflection with its swirling guitars and poignant lyrics. Blending shoegaze and alternative rock elements, the band effortlessly merges styles to create a captivating and introspective experience, showcasing their versatility and skill in crafting emotive music. “Undertoe” turns darker, unleashing a fierce and intense sound with pounding drums and blazing guitars. This high-energy track reflects the turmoil and inner struggle in its lyrics, capturing the emotional chaos and conflict of navigating life’s challenges. With its raw power and unrelenting rhythm, “undertoe” is a visceral expression of our emotional storms.
“The Day I Learned Your Name” is a poignant ballad that brings a moment of calm, exploring the bittersweet emotions of love and loss. With heartfelt lyrics and simple yet effective instrumentation, this song reveals its emotional depth, creating a sense of vulnerability and intimacy. The stripped-back arrangement allows the listener to connect with the raw emotions, making this track a powerful and moving tribute to the pain and beauty of love. With its high-energy rhythms and insightful lyrics, “Cognitive Distortion” transforms, addressing mental well-being and self-awareness. This upbeat track explores how our minds can distort reality, making identifying with its honest and thought-provoking message simple. By confronting the complexities of mental health, “Cognitive Distortion” delivers a relatable and empowering anthem that encourages listeners to re-examine their own perceptions. The album continues with “Miranda Lawson” and “Going Home”, maintaining the emotional intensity and energetic instrumentation. Meanwhile, “Polymorphic Light Eruption” stands out with its innovative and experimental sound, featuring layered textures that create a captivating atmosphere. These tracks showcase the band’s ability to balance heartfelt emotion with sonic creativity, adding depth and variety to the album’s overall sound. “The Bittersweet Season” and “The Wanderer” explore profound questions about life’s meaning and personal reflection. These songs feature complex guitar patterns and heartfelt lyrics, inviting listeners to contemplate their journey. With their thought-provoking messages and beautiful instrumentation, these tracks create an introspective and emotional experience, encouraging self-reflection and exploration.
“Planned Obsolescence” is a powerful commentary on modern society, delivered with the band’s distinctive alternative rock style. This standout track features sharp lyrics that challenge the status quo and energetic instrumentation that drives home its message. With its catchy hooks and driving rhythms, “Planned Obsolescence” is a memorable and impactful song that leaves a lasting impression. The album concludes with “Blush”, a serene and contemplative track that wraps up the emotional journey on a gentle note. This soothing song features a beautiful melody and sincere lyrics, creating a peaceful atmosphere reflecting the album’s love, loss, and self-discovery themes. “Blush” provides a calming and satisfying conclusion, leaving listeners with a lasting impression of Twelve Days in June’s heartfelt and nostalgic masterpiece. “Hiraeth” is a powerful and emotional album that combines alternative rock, grunge, and shoegaze sounds. Twelve Days in June has created a unique and captivating record honouring their musical influences while standing out in today’s rock scene. With its intense sound and heartfelt themes, “Hiraeth” is a must-listen for fans of 90s alternative rock and anyone looking for music that understands and validates their emotions, offering a therapeutic and unforgettable listening experience.
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