It’s been five years since the debut EP from Háxan, which means it’s five years since I wrote: “Just occasionally there’s a band that comes along with a debut that sounds so fully formed that it’s already time to stop talking about ‘potential’ and instead revel in the skill. Haxan are that band.”
Now they’re back, and on “Death Of Me” (both the track and the wider EP), it’s inescapable: it’s all about groove — not to mention the modern-sounding chorus.
“Sirens” is even better. A full-on metal gallop, it’s why they can play Rockstock and Bloodstock and fit in seamlessly.
“The Thirteenth Hour” is all arena-rock swagger — Christ, listen to those drums — and you can almost sense the joy that Sam Bolderson has when she plays it.
They just sound so confident, not to mention fantastic, on all of these. “Burn Alive” is heavier than you might imagine; honestly, it wouldn’t be out of place on the recent Burning Witches album.
There’s just something special about three-piece bands, and so it is here: a wonderful balance.
The closer, “Collide,” gets its fists up for an almost Saxon-style slice of blood and thunder — and Steve Harris wants his bass riff back.
“Death Of Me” makes good on their claim to be “bigger and bolder” than ever, and it’s the work of a wonderful band. Just don’t make us wait five years for the next one, eh?
