In a musical landscape where genres often blend and collide, Hu$h emerges as a truly unique artist, fearlessly navigating the realms of metal, punk, rap, and electronic music. With his upcoming debut LP, “SKUNKWORKS,” slated for release this Friday, on May 12 under Strange Music, Hu$h showcases his prodigious talents by assuming the roles of producer, instrumentalist, and vocalist on every track. This ambitious endeavor allows him to craft a sonic experience that remains cohesive despite its genre-hopping nature.
Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of musical icons such as My Chemical Romance, Soundgarden, Stone Temple Pilots, Slipknot, Noisia, and A Tribe Called Quest, Hu$h carves out a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. Reminiscent of the best music from the late ’90s and early 2000s, his style pays homage to the rebellious spirit and boundary-pushing ethos of that era. However, Hu$h injects his own modern twist, firmly establishing himself as an artist with a sound that is unmistakably his own.
With a penchant for catchy powerful guitar riffs, and hard-hitting beats, Hu$h ‘s music possesses an infectious energy. I can already tell you, this is an album that’s going on my work out playlist.
His ability to seamlessly fuse the aggression of metal, the rawness of punk, the lyricism of rap, and the electronic experimentation creates a sonic tapestry that defies conventions and captivates the senses. Each track on “SKUNKWORKS” unfolds like a sonic adventure, taking you on a rollercoaster ride through various musical landscapes.
While Hu$h fearlessly explores different sounds and styles, it is his distinctive vocals that serve as the anchor, lending coherence to the album. His emotive delivery and raw intensity bring his honest observations and thought-provoking lyrics to life. Hu$h fearlessly tackles subjects like life, love, and much more.
I found myself immersed in the album that is as chaotic as it is catchy. Each song presents a unique sonic palette, reflecting Hu$h ‘s multifaceted influences and his willingness to break boundaries. From the thunderous energy of almost metal-infused tracks to the introspective intros of hip-hop-driven pieces, and the mesmerizing electronic elements that permeate the album, Hu$h’s ability to traverse genres with finesse is commendable.
HU$H’s remarkable blend of styles is immediately showcased in the opening track, “Coldthrust.” The song begins with a delicate chime-like tone, creating an air of anticipation before swiftly transforming into a powerful, almost hybridized fusion of heavy and, what I would call, almost like EDM influences for the chorus. This dynamic shift in sound captured my attention, and held it well.
What makes “Coldthrust” an excellent choice for an opening track is its balanced approach. While it delivers a captivating and energetic experience, it does so without veering into excessive aggression. HU$H expertly navigates the fine line between intensity and control, creating a sound that resonates without overwhelming you. I’m a bit of a nerd when it comes to album flow and placement when doing full album reviews, so I thought this was a nice track to open with and a good choice.
The second track, “Fn Myself,” kicks off with a gritty guitar tone and showcases excellent percussion, driving the energy forward. Clocking in at a shorter duration, it brings to mind the two-minute punk classics of the early 2000s, capturing that raw and unapologetic spirit.
“Fn Myself” delves into a relatable theme that many of us experience from time to time. It explores the frustration that can lead to self-sabotage, self-criticism, and even self-loathing. The song encapsulates those moments when the weight of frustration becomes so overwhelming that you reach a point where you don’t mind indulging in self-destructive tendencies. In an unexpected twist, this venting and release of pent-up emotions can feel oddly cathartic, providing a temporary sense of relief.
“99 Cents For Life,” HU$H cranks up the intensity to 11. This short, quick-hitting punk rock anthem packs a punch. The song’s energy and spirit harken back to the vibrant punk rock anthems of the past, reminiscent of the infectious energy, and writing style found on a Dead Milkmen record. And it’s also a great reminder that despite soaring inflation Arizona iced tea is still $0.99
Next up, get ready for the musical rollercoaster that’s as unpredictable as a Midwesterner trying to dress appropriately for all four seasons in a single day. Brace your ears for the genre-shifting delight that is “Go Away Plz,” one of my personal favorite tracks from this record. And believe me, when I say this song is unique, it’s not an overstatement—prepare to be taken on a wild ride through EDM, hard rock, punk, and hip hop, all in the blink of an eye. And somehow, HU$H manages to make it work seamlessly.
Like a Midwesterner preparing their daily wardrobe to experience all Four Seasons within the same day, your ears are going to experience several genres in the span of one single track. “Go Away Plz” Is another one of my personal favorite songs off this record, especially given its uniqueness. And that’s not an overstatement either, this song goes from EDM, to Hard Rock, to punk, to hip hop, in no time. And Hu$h is able to make it work incredibly well.
It’s like a sonic adventure where you never know what’s coming next, but somehow it all comes together flawlessly. The track kicks off with an EDM-infused segment that’ll get you moving and grooving, only to transition swiftly into hard-hitting rock that makes you want to unleash your inner headbanger. And just when you think you’ve got a grip on the song’s direction, it pivots into punk, unleashing its rebellious spirit with gusto.
“Faith Is Lost,” is the final track I’d like to speak a bit about. This particular song not only shines on the album but also serves as one of the singles, acting as an enticing introduction to the world of HU$H for fans. With its infectious energy and nostalgic charm, “Faith Is Lost” will transport you back to the glorious days of early 2000s punk and rock, evoking a sense of nostalgia that’s hard to resist.
Listening to “Faith Is Lost” is like taking a joyous trip down memory lane. It’s reminiscent of the anthems that defined the early 2000s, resonating with fans who hold a deep appreciation for that era of music. The song’s infectious nature and undeniable charm will have you hooked from the first listen, as it channels the energy and spirit of those glory days.
In the realm of Hu$h’s debut LP “SKUNKWORKS,” one cannot help but be blown away by the abundance of great tracks that grace this album. With a staggering 18 songs, this is an album that has no filler. There is just a ton of great music here, and of course, I have to mention his work withTech N9ne which is fantastic.
For the general listening audience, “SKUNKWORKS” offers an expansive range of styles and sounds, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the heavy-hitting energy of the metal and punk influences or find solace in the introspective and relatable lyrics, this album has a myriad of entry points.
As a fan of Strange Music, it’s great to witness the addition of Hu$h to their roster. The label has a history of nurturing and promoting exceptional artists, and Hu$h is undoubtedly a welcome addition to their esteemed lineup. With his unique blend of styles and ability to captivate audiences, Hu$h has the potential to become a gateway artist for many listeners. His music has the power to inspire exploration and curiosity, enticing listeners to delve deeper into unfamiliar genres and broaden their musical horizons, which is something I’ve always been a huge fan of.
“Hu$h’s debut album ‘SKUNKWORKS’ is a genre-defying work of art, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend metal, punk, rap, and electronic elements into a chaotically catchy sound. Be sure to check it out in two days!
