Hurts are back with their third album Desire, and after two top tens across Europe, what can we expect from this synth-pop / indie-dance duo?
Back in 2013 their Exile album was well received by critics, but lacked the commercial success of their first release. This album shows singer Theo Hutchcraft and synthesist Adam Anderson trying out some new ideas, and they seem to be working. The result is a more contemporary offering, when compared to their unconventional Depeche Mode inspired Exile. Desire on the other hand, features 13 tracks that are much easier on the ear.
It is a glossy, confident album that is full of class. The Manchester based duo begin with a euphoric anthem about being an outsider ‘make them all desperate to be you’. Beautiful Ones has no shame, and its cheese content knows no bounds, as the Van Halen-esque guitar solo proves so well. The barrage of fromage continues as the 90’s piano chords jump around for the intro of Ready To Go. It is an oddly addictive blend of Take That and The Killers, and will have even the most reluctant listeners toe tapping.
‘Oh, oh, oh’ could be lifted from any number of 2017’s pop hits, but this time it is from the introduction of People Like Us. There are more than one hints of reggae music hidden within the production, but this epic arrangement is a million miles from Jamaica. Something I Need To Know sounds similar to bands such as The Script, and even if it lacks originality, manages to pack a bunch; the sombre cello moments are particularly tasteful. It may be a shame that bands such as Hurts need to water down their output to match expectations, but even on the childish simplicity of Thinking Of You, you can hear why they are becoming so popular.
Chaperone stands out for all the right reasons, as its piano chords dance in-between the vocal harmonies. ‘Would you run away, if I told you I loved you?’ It is a story of a friend who fears of their love being unrequited, and is successfully emotive. It is so memorable that it could have been written by Ed Sheeran, whereas on Boyfriend, the duo display some Prince influences.
Not every track boils over, and during the 13 tracks some luke warm songs like Wait Up appear. It is a subject matter that is not explored so often, the shame of cheating on your partner. However even these fillers appear to have purpose, and are delivered well. Spotlights, for example, is a Jamiroquai influenced dance floor filler, with a pounding beat, gritty bass and over the top brass.
Since they formed in 2009 these two have been leading up to this release, by testing the waters initially they have realised what works and have rolled with it. This album will sit comfortably in collections alongside Sam Smith, or Ellie Goulding, and will surely gain them a number of new listeners. Want to hear it for yourself? Come and see us at your local Richer Sounds for a speaker demo.
