Review of HIMALAYAS’ album ‘BAD STAR’ by When The Horn Blows

Cardiff-based rock group HIMALAYAS has unveiled their latest album, ‘BAD STAR,’ promising a sonic adventure that should not be overlooked. Since its formation in 2015, HIMALAYAS, comprising Joe Williams (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Mike Griffiths (lead guitar, backing vocals), Louis Heaps (bass), and James Goulbourn (drums), has steadily gained recognition in the rock music scene by incorporating elements of indie, garage, and alternative music into their repertoire, catering to a diverse and expanding fan base. Their latest offering, ‘BAD STAR,’ adds another dimension to their musical catalog.

Opening the album is the track ‘Beneath The Barrell,’ setting a cinematic tone with a gradual build-up before unleashing a flurry of raw, intense sound. This sets the stage for what’s to come in the rest of the album, keeping listeners engaged with its unpredictable twists and turns. Following this impactful start is ‘Hung Up,’ a track brimming with gnarly guitar riffs and pulsating drums that grab the listener’s attention. The song’s relentless energy and surprising false endings demonstrate HIMALAYAS’ knack for crafting compelling, well-produced music that never fails to captivate.

Lead singer Joe Williams sheds light on the thematic inspiration behind ‘BAD STAR,’ noting the album’s focus on the self-inflicted disasters that people often create. Guitarist Mike Griffiths adds a candid observation that permeates the album’s essence – “Everything’s fucked.” This underlying sentiment adds depth and coherence to the album, threading a common thread through its diverse tracks.

Track four, ‘What If…?,’ made waves by reaching No. 2 on the Kerrang Magazine Chart and securing a spot on the Kerrang Radio Playlist, with support from Radio X and Radio 1. The album’s midsection showcases ‘Heavy Weather,’ a slower-paced track that exudes emotional depth through intricate guitar melodies and poignant lyrics. This introspective piece adds a touch of melancholy to the album’s dynamic range, inviting listeners to pause and reflect amidst the musical storm.

As the tempo picks back up with ‘Surrender’ and ‘Nothing Higher,’ HIMALAYAS effortlessly maintains the album’s momentum, leading into the final tracks with a seamless transition. ‘Twisted Reflections,’ reminiscent of influences like Muse and Pink Floyd, offers a fresh perspective on the album’s themes, leaving fans eager for more. The album concludes with ‘A Brand New God,’ a captivating track that showcases Joe Williams’ vocal prowess and the band’s musical finesse, leaving listeners yearning for a repeat listen.

With ‘BAD STAR,’ HIMALAYAS solidifies their position in the rock music landscape, setting the stage for their upcoming Spring 2025 tour and promising an exciting trajectory ahead. As only their second studio album, ‘BAD STAR’ demonstrates HIMALAYAS’ growth and artistry, cementing their status as a band to watch. Don’t miss out on this electrifying release that showcases the band’s evolution and musical prowess.