The UK is a melting pot of great pop-punk bands right now; Hindsights are one of them and 'Cloudy Eyes' should tell you why. One of two tracks that make up album title Cold Walls/Cloudy Eyes, the new single is a masterclass in great, simple, punk rock. Separating themselves from their peers - Gnarwolves, Boston Manor et al - with a clean and polished sound, Hindsights cribb from more melodic acts but deliver that with a bit of grit and substance.
'Cloudy Eyes' even sees the band leaning towards a slightly heavier sound, but retains a little levity thanks to some twinkling guitar, a trademark of Hindsights' sound, and a catchy hook. Benio Baumgarts pained lead vocal sounds ballad-esque at times, the pain in his voice the only thing keeping it from crossing into pure pop territory. It meshes well with the track's stirring drum beat and distorted guitar to give it the kind of edge required.
There might well be something in the water here in the UK, but I'm glad it's not affecting every new band in the same way. Whilst Hindsights are clearly influenced by a lot of bands, specifically their peers, it's clear that they have their own vision and, if 'Cloudy Eyes' is anything to go by, that should through on their debut LP.
You can listen to the new track here. Cold Walls/Cloudy Eyes releases via Beach Community on February 23rd.
