EP Review: Hiraeth - Tales of Resistance
Reviewed by Sam Jones
Hiraeth are a very new band to come into the scene, so much so we have the pleasure of experiencing their debut EP. Formed out of Wrexham, United Kingdom, in late 2024, the band stand as a black metal act bringing forth the struggles of Welsh determination and her defiant spirit throughout history through a black metal lens. Leaning towards the atmospheric side of things I was more then curious to check out this smaller release by Hiraeth; here’s hoping a strong reception may one day result in a full length. With a September 5th release date planned and an eventual tape distribution to follow by Fiadh Productions, I didn’t want to waste another second.
I’m a sucker for music that gradually builds, gathering strength, before the band in question dive into the crux of their performance; in this case Hiraeth’s primary flow of sound isn’t this bombastically driven explosion but this sweet and oozing release of blackened galore. One can imagine trekking down forgotten autumnal paths as this plays behind you, the weather is overcast, darkening, as one looks within themselves about their Welsh ancestry and heritage which is a major factor concerning the band’s identity. The fact that I can conjure such seasonal imagery whilst the summer persists showcases Hiraeth’s ability to immerse us. It’s nice to discover black metal where their riffs take you on a journey rather than pummel you sideways.
In addition, Tales Of Resistance is a surprisingly calming experience whereby the track progression is geared more towards introspective sojourning than some baseless affirmation of power. This is integral to understanding Hiraeth wherein they attach especial significance to who they and their people are. The resulting soundscape is one of content peace; as I listened I was completely calm and happy with simply letting the band guide to wherever their intended destination was for me. The atmospheric quality is here in droves and yet they do so without employing cliched techniques, all such atmosphere is achieved solely through guitar work that bleeds through the record yet occupies a spot behind the vocals. Even the ending tapping solo during “Crogen” doesn’t feel like typical flair, fusing wondrously with Hiraeth’s proud love of their countryside.
I think it says a lot when you listen to these seven-minute tracks and, while not a second is wasted, you do not want it to end. Given how Hiraeth’s soundscape is atmospherically calming, near trance-like, it’s no shock that whilst listening you don’t wish it to conclude. Their momentum is clear, they rarely speed things up unless the songwriting demands it, throwing in blast beats or the more intense vocal delivery. They arguably don’t pick things up until the excellent, and unexpected, cover of Venom’s “Countess Bathory”; the band therefore deliver examples of juxtaposed tempo and demonstrate they can perform at either speed. There are scores of black metal bands that try and break the sound barrier so it’s refreshing to hear one that takes things at their own leisure, knowing the relaxed ride will potentially bring more fans in than had they just gone breakneck speed.
In conclusion, Hiraeth are a fascinating act whose greatest strength is in their subtlety. You’ll begin this EP and next thing, it’s finished and behind you. You’ll find yourself wondering where that time went yet understand you loved every moment. As mentioned, Tales Of Resistance is a work that takes you under its wing and lets you stew, taking their time to give you all they have. Whether we look closely at the drums, the riffs, the vocals, Hiraeth’s sound is one where the collective output by the band themselves comes secondary to the atmosphere thus produced. I think many will take to the band seeing how calming and pleasant this EP is and I thoroughly await news of, hopefully, their first full length release. Tales Of Resistance is out September 5th and can be found on Hiraeth’s Bandcamp.
