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Following their first US tour in over a decade, Lebanon Hanover returns with a soul-stirring double A-side single release, marking their first new material since the captivating 2020 album, 'Sci-Fi Sky.'
Now, the enigmatic duo of William Maybelline and Larissa Iceglass beckons listeners into unventured sonic domains, intricately weaving folk-driven acoustic dream pop with the vulnerable essence of post-punk in a contemplative exploration of life's ephemeral yet profound nature.
Better Than Going Under:
Embarking on a Cure-like sonic voyage reminiscent of the 'Head on the Door' and the 'Kiss Me Era,' 'Better Than Going Under' manifests as a romantic, somber daydream.
William Maybelline's brooding baritone intertwines with sighing back vocals, narrating an ode to life's fleeting yet boundless vistas. The acoustic strums initiate a folk-driven narrative which, when coupled with a celestial choir, crafts a contemplative soundscape of cautious optimism.
The lyricism, "Life is full of wonder, it's better than going under," encapsulates a message of endurance amidst life's turbulent waves of sorrow. This track tenderly encourages listeners to embrace the small joys within life's limited vastness, portraying a psychedelic narrative reminiscent of the evocative vibes of Echo and the Bunnymen or The Church.
The key change in the chorus amplifies the emotive voyage, making 'Better Than Going Under' a compelling narrative that beckons listeners to find joy amidst life's unpredictable ebb and flow, rather than succumbing to the undertow of despair.
KYIV:
Bearing the name of Ukraine's capital, 'KYIV,' voiced by Larissa Iceglass, delves into a narrative reflective of the sorrow and despair entwined within war-torn regions like Ukraine and beyond. The acoustic guitar and drum machine create a Cocteau Twins' 'Treasure'-reminiscent soundscape, evoking a melancholic yet beautiful auditory journey.
Iceglass's voice, transitioning from her husky baritone to a more resigned lament, embodies a poignant reflection on the harsh realities faced by those embroiled in conflict-ridden landscapes. The narrative exudes a collective empathy towards the suffering, underscoring the arbitrary geographic lottery that delineates the vastly disparate human experiences.
Accompanied by a somber trumpet, the song paints a vivid picture of despair while also serving as a call to arms, urging collective empathy and togetherness to traverse through the harsh realities of this life.
Through 'Better Than Going Under' and 'KYIV', Lebanon Hanover invites listeners into a profound reflection on life's beauty amidst despair, nurturing a shared human experience aimed at finding hope and unity amidst the global tumult.
Both tracks, laden with emotive resonance, unveils a sonorous exploration of the human condition, engaging with themes of existence, empathy, and the overarching global narrative.
Tracklisting:
1. Better Than Going Under
2. KYIV
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