There is this great documentary out there called Kill Your Idols that explores the post-punk, no wave music revolution of the late ‘70s and early ‘80s that produced and inspired bands like Suicide, Sonic Youth, and Swans.
If there was ever a sequel made about current bands that are carrying on the legacy of musical experimentation and noise rock, Hilly Eye should definitely be one of the bands showcased.
The Brooklyn-based duo, comprised of guitarist/vocalist Amy Klein (Leda, formerly of Titus Andronicus) and drummer/background vocalist Catherine Tung, just released their debut 7”, JACOB’S LADDER, which showcases their love for sweeping melodies and controlled noise.
The two-track offering leaves me eager to hear their forthcoming full-length album due this fall from New Jersey’s powerhouse independent label Don Giovanni Records (Screaming Females, Black Wine, Noun). Not so much because JACOB’S LADDER represents the best the band has to offer, but because it shows Klein and Tung are very capable musicians taking the time to explore their craft.
I know a big part of their sound is the progressive repetition featured on the title track, overlaid by Klein’s haunting vocals and brief moments of guitar free-for-all. The song has the control of Sonic Youth, mixed with elements of Sleater-Kinney’s more somber moments. But what really interested me was the B-side, Almanac, where the guitar is allowed more room to expand on different progressions and offers a glimpse of influence from Lightning Bolt, a band that matches precision with angst-fueled speed. Almanac shows Hilly Eye can provide a bit of a release on top of their style of swelling, controlled noise.
I’m looking forward to hearing Klein and Tung’s future exploration of where the line between noise and control lies on their full-length album. For now, check out their 7”, JACOB’S LADDER, at Don Giovanni Records and get a taste of what could be coming our way.
