ALBUM REVIEW: Honey – Vakili Band
Rock outfit VAKILI BAND have just put out their latest album Honey. The band, fronted by Lily Vakili, can be described as what happens when you take elements from the earlier eras of rock – more specifically the sounds of the 70s/80s dance-punk, new-wave and psychedelic music – and placed them in the modern day with each song feeling unique. The result is a record that feels like a breath of fresh air in the way it allows us to explore different emotions and styles.
From start to finish it’s hard not to find yourself comparing the songs to various female vocalists, iconic in their own talents. The band themselves have named artists like PATTI SMITH and JANIS JOPLIN as influences, yet you can hear so much more than that, as demonstrated in opening track Mapplethorpe. With its chill, laidback rock nature that gradually builds in intensity, and the dramatic vocals, names like JONI MITCHELL and DEBBIE HARRY spring to mind. And in a more modern example, when we get to Smeck, a more blues-inspired take on rock complete with a harmonica, you’ll probably find yourself comparing it to LADY GAGA during her Joanne and A Star Is Born eras.
That’s not to say that the record only allows you to compare it to other iconic names; this album is so versatile when it comes to the different styles and genres explored where no song sounds the same and each one is as stunning to listen to as the previous one. In a way it feels like a love letter to each movement covered, whether it’s 70s dance-punk that’s explored in Yves Calls Her Betty, the dreamlike To The Park that nicely transitions into alternative rock, or the frankly so damn cool and confident blues rock explored in Why Can’t You Say.
The main highlight however would have to be Pyro Luv Attack which opens with a build-up of with bass, cymbals, and haunting vocals. It has the listener intrigued and wondering if this is going to head into melodic metal territory, but then heads back into the band’s now signature blues rock sound. And to top it all off nicely you have the lyrics of “I don’t want to set the world on fire / I want to burn it up with you” that will remain stuck in your head for the foreseeable future.
Overall, Honey is a fantastic record that refuses to fall into stereotypes or habits, and instead embraces as many genres as it can reach. You can’t go wrong with that.
Rating: 8/10
Honey is out now via self-release.
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