ALBUM REVIEW: Hunt – Naut
Bristol-based post-punk band NAUT have been releasing EPs for a while, and their debut album Hunt is almost here. NAUT’s niche is combining dark lyrics with catchy songs and heavy gothic influences. Their music has a clear throwback sound, but with the hopes to bring a more modern take to the genre. The four-piece bonded over their mutual love for classic rock and metal, and they aim to explore some difficult themes throughout their songs, while trying to keep it fairly light.
Opening with Dissent, a catchy riff accompanies vocalist Gavin Laubscher’s unique voice. While it’s slightly surprising in contrast to the melodic guitars, the growling vocals bring a gloomy and dramatic feel to the song. With distorted guitars that increase in urgency as the song builds, it’s definitely a good introduction to NAUT’s sound. Next is All The Days, with the light guitars creating a more upbeat energy, especially in the chorus. The vocals are more melodic here, and the lyrics tell a story, immersing listeners in the world of Hunt. As the songs build, so does the tension. Gold Death introduces a more theatrical sound that continues throughout many of the songs on the album, and is certainly one of the catchier tracks. The band describe their songs as ‘danceable’, and that’s obvious in the chorus of this one with its very memorable lyrics.
Damocles is maybe the best song on the album, bringing a dark, mantra-type feel with the strong vocals. The chorus is immersive, sounding almost like a choir, with intensive drums to keep the pace up. While Hunt is only made up of eight songs, they’re all very long, and it’s possible that could be the album’s downfall. There is only so much that can keep a track interesting for seven minutes, and while some are varied and catchy enough to maintain interest, some of them aren’t quite there, causing the album to drop off slightly around the middle. However, towards the end the interest is piqued again with Nightfall. Piercing guitars cut through, and that theatrical feeling is back. The chorus is celebratory and dramatic, and the guitars build to an urgency right to the end. Ending the album on another high note is Watchers, which kicks in immediately. The lyrics are memorable and well-written, and the chorus has an addictive sound, making it one to come back to.
Hunt is an extremely solid album, with some tracks that really stand out. While it can fall victim to some pretty cheesy lyrics, it just about pulls them off. The distinctive vocals are a selling point, and while the songs can start to blend into one at times, many of them are interesting enough to stand out. NAUT’s debut album is an enjoyable take on where post-punk might be going, and it’ll be interesting to see what they do next.
Rating: 7/10
Hunt is set for release on February 24th via Season Of Mist.
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