King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard in Cleveland – Concert Review
- Bill Kurzenberger
Hollow Ship, the Swedish psychedelic rock outfit, is set to release their latest offering, “Animated Music,” on May 31st via PNKSLM Recordings. Following their well-received 2020 debut LP, “Future Remains,” this four-track EP promises to further entrench the band’s position in the psychedelic music landscape.
Initially born out of an improvisational collaboration between multi-instrumentalist and producer Thomas E. Frank and guitarist Vincent Vensal, Hollow Ship’s music is characterized by its interplay between various elements, exuding a captivating blend of looseness and expert musicianship. Hailing from Gothenburg, the band embarked on their musical journey in 2019, marked by the release of their debut 7” “We Were Kings” and tours across Europe.
Despite facing the challenges posed by the pandemic, which led to the cancellation of their touring plans following the release of “Future Remains,” Hollow Ship managed to amass a dedicated following. Now, with “Animated Music,” they delve deeper into the instrumental realm, propelled by the rhythm section comprising long-time drummer Mårten Magnefors and bassist Donovan von Martens.
Recorded live in a single session using an eight-track tape machine, the EP captures the raw energy and spontaneity of the band’s performance. Thomas E. Frank elaborates, “Our aim was to find pure energy, the feeling of a band going to the studio for the first time. Not overthink it.” This approach results in a captivating sonic journey spanning 20 minutes, originally conceived for the band’s ‘Space Motion’ show in collaboration with visual artist Freddy Wallin.
“Animated Music” epitomizes Hollow Ship’s prowess in instrumental storytelling, solidifying their position within the Swedish psychedelic scene alongside esteemed acts like Dungen and Goat. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of influences including jazz, avant-garde, and hard rock, the EP showcases the band’s evolution while evoking comparisons to international contemporaries such as Boogarins, Khruangbin, Kikagaku Moyo, and Tame Impala.
Looking ahead, the band is preparing to unveil their second full-length album later this year, hinting at more musical adventures on the horizon. With “Animated Music,” Hollow Ship invites listeners to embark on a mesmerizing sonic voyage, propelled by their unique blend of musical exploration and boundless creativity.
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