The other day, I received a bizarre press release: The Hives want to franchise themselves, claiming there’s just too much rocking to be done. Cool. Yeah. Even Gene Simmons hasn’t thought of this, and Kiss are the McDonald’s of rock. Tasteless, bland, and bizarrely popular.
The Hives, however, are doing it for larks. Ever since they turned up at JB’s in Dudley opening for the Yo-Yos, it’s been their MO (used deliberately). Okay, we didn’t know they were going to take over the world then with that song, but they were fun in the extreme.
And their comeback has been likewise. It’s been a couple of years since I saw them open for The Offspring, but that night – as now – you can’t fail to love them.
Which brings us to “The Death Of Randy Fitzsimmons.” Their first album in 11 years is nothing more and nothing less than a wild ride through a musical landscape as intriguing as its title suggests. “Bogus Operandi” (their BO?) captures The Hives groove brilliantly, while “Trapdoor Solution” possesses a rhythm that could make the dead dance. “Countdown To Shutdown” takes garage rock to genius heights, thanks to “my man Ponzi.” Just buy into this one.
“Rigor Mortis Radio” is primal and filthy, proving that being dead is never an obstacle to sounding vibrant.
“Stick Up” channels New Orleans jazz without succumbing to Beale St tourism, and “Smoke And Mirrors” exudes more strut than Jagger and more lip-curl than Billy Idol. “Crash Into The Weekend” has a Stonesy vibe, turning every night into a perpetual Friday. “Two Kinds Of Trouble” is catchier than covid, offering more fun than trouble—truly something to love. “The Way The Story Goes” feels like a soundtrack playing in The Hives’ heads, setting a unique tone.
“The Bomb” is explosive, and one can imagine Jon Spencer nodding in approval. “What Did I Ever Do To You” ventures into post-punk territory with a hint of Joy Division, teasing the possibility of starting anew. “Step Out Of The Way” is pure, unadulterated fun with a capital F—an embodiment of The Hives’ essence and a testament to their consistent energy.
After more than two decades, they’re still your new favourite band.
Welcome back, you rascals, even if the franchise idea is a bit shit …..
Rating: 8.5/10
