Homesick joins Siluh Records and releases new single “Esperanto”
Crafted by Elias Elgersma (vocals, keys, production, sampler, guitar), Jaap van der Velde (vocals, keys, production, sampler, guitar), and Erik Woudwijk (drums), The Homesick unveiled their initial record Youth Hunt in 2017, promptly followed by The Big Exercise in 2020, and most recently, their eponymous third album in 2023. Their newest song, “Esperanto,” marks the band’s debut with Viennese independent label Siluh Records (known for Topsy Turvy and Laundromat Chicks).
Elgersma delves into the genesis of the track, revealing, “For over a year we played it live with improvised lyrics. I always just sang ”Esperanto”, no clue why. While recording I came up with a short little lyric about Nostradamus. For some reason Nostradamus reminded me of Lejzer Zamenhof, the guy who invented the language of Esperanto. What they both have in common is that they both became famous historical figures with kinda useless stuff; inventing a pointless language and predicting nonsense. In the studio (my livingroom) we added layers to make it more disco-y and Jaap came up with a guitar line at the end in the style of Echo and the Bunnymen.”
The Homesick’s journey from their debut to their latest release showcases an evolution in their sound and style. Their musical maturity is evident in the intricate layering and rich textures found in their self-titled album. The band’s ability to blend genres and experiment with different sonic elements is on full display in “Esperanto,” a testament to their growth and artistic exploration over the years.
The exploration of themes like language, history, and the interpretation of prophecies adds a thought-provoking depth to the song. The juxtaposition of Nostradamus and Lejzer Zamenhof highlights the idea of fame derived from seemingly insignificant or unconventional contributions. This unconventional approach to the content of the song reflects the band’s unique perspective and willingness to delve into complex and thought-provoking subject matter.
The addition of disco-inspired elements and guitar stylings reminiscent of Echo and the Bunnymen offer a fresh and dynamic twist to the track. The merging of these diverse musical influences showcases The Homesick’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres and sounds.
“Esperanto” serves as a testament to The Homesick’s creative vision and growth as a band. Their ability to create compelling and innovative music that pushes the boundaries of traditional genres is a testament to their artistry and dedication to their craft. As they continue to evolve and explore new musical territories, fans can expect more groundbreaking and thought-provoking music from The Homesick in the future.