Following their previous single Panic Stations which is now a firm fan-favourite, Sheffield- based trio, FloodHounds, have stepped into 2023 with all guns blazing; ‘Psychosemantics‘ showcasing a whole new level to this already great band. Having worked with The Magic Garden Studio who have produced influential new artists like Editors, Kid Kapichi and The Blinders, they have taken this chance to experiment with some new sounds, including synths and electronic drum samples, and it really has paid off with this latest release!
We are welcomed with a short but sweet, gritty bass intro reminiscent of Royal Blood, before slick lyrics cut through with a whole host of metaphors; ‘even your words are serrated, worse than a scalpel to skin’. If you’re familiar with FloodHound’s previous work you’ll know that they’re experts layering catchy lyrics with bluesy guitars and stomping bass riffs, creating an air of classic indie rock and roll. With this release, stylish verses sway over some nostalgic retro spy movie chords and include satisfyingly punchy lines such as ‘ice cold and it shows and god knows I came close’- it’s impossible not to bop away! It’s clear that they’ve been exploring different sounds and productions, which mirror this track’s darker, more mysterious themes.
The chorus sheds light on the track’s premise, alongside the title’s possible play on words, with ‘psychosomatics’ referring to conditions stemming from internal conflicts and stress, or the interaction of the mind and the body, and ‘semantics’ focussing on meanings. ‘Get me out of this, why’d you get me into this’ conveys the helpless feelings that come with being thrown unexpectedly into external chaos and how you and your mind may begin to navigate this inner turmoil. The energetic chorus packs a powerful punch, simultaneously acting as a breather from all the chaos that you might get swept up in, whether it’s from your own doing or someone else’s, with ‘save me from me, I just need a little time, outside, to breath’, emphasising this stress and emotion.
The complexity of the track itself reflects this chaotic energy, with hidden sounds featured deep in the mix meaning each time you listen, depending on how you listen, you end up hearing something new. This also adds to an overall uneasy and ‘freaky’ feeling, emphasised through its chromatic sinister guitar solo melodies that inject an indie noir vibe, alongside sub-bass drops to ensure the riffs hit hard. This means it can only be appreciated at its fullest when turned up loud, or seen play live, which I had the pleasure of witnessing last month!Psychosemantics is the band’s heaviest and most complex track so far and showcases FloodHounds in a fresh and exciting light. The band have a run of upcoming shows, including another headline show in their hometown of Sheffield on 24th March- get ready to have your socks blown off!
Featured image by Elanor Freeman