HIMALAYAS have released their debut album, From Hell to Here. With a number of rock artists set to release new material this year, the Cardiff act also deserve to be thrown up there with the likes of QOTSA, Foo Fighters and Royal Blood. Having released a strong set of singles that have continued to leave my head spinning, this introductory collection of songs encapsulates a haunting dive into the depths of introspection and raw emotion. Leading us through a cathartic, exhilarating journey along the way.
Beginning with its eponymous track, ‘From Hell to Here’ opens with the haunting atmosphere that envelops the record. Ethereal melodies lead the listener inside, setting the tone for some jagged, edgy darkness. As the lyrics explore themes of personal struggle, the track sounds massive in execution as it expands with further atmospheric tones. Driving home the power of resilience that bursts through this strong start.
‘Into the Trap’ features one of the heaviest riffs on the record. Unfolding like a sonic labyrinth and without an ounce of letting go. Its thunderous instrumental hits hard but utilises space wonderfully to make each thud sound harder. This combined with the emotive range of the vocals makes it a real beast of a listen, captivating with its lasting impact. “Alone” also aims for the jaw with its flurry of riffs, but strips back the instrumentation enough to allow the vocals to shine. Their emotionally charged performance sees the band tackle isolation and loneliness in a brazen way that really works.
‘Leave This Place’ injects pure energy and tension into the album with its infectious tempo and monolithic riffs. The driving rhythm create an irresistible groove that encourages you to move along. Creating one hell of an anthemic track. This is an instant hit for HIMALAYAS, and could easily be their version of QOTSA’s ‘Song For The Dead’. ‘Flatline’ takes things into a darker turn, diving into the depths of turmoil to deliver another dazzling performance. Charged with loaded lyrics and a tempo that seems on the brink of falling apart, it is a massive tune.
In conclusion, HIMALAYAS have delivered a fantastic album. From Hell to Here is a thrillride from start to end, leaving a lot of highlights along the way. In spite of its heavy themes, it never sounds bloated or weighed down. Instead, it sounds like a mythical beast that could eviscerate anything in its path. It is hauntingly beautiful in parts, and as shown on its closer ‘After Time’, there’s still room for growth in their sound.