Strange scenes in Holladay Park
Portland’s How Strange It Is are gearing up for a major musical statement, with their second album, There Is No Evil, set to arrive next month. Fans are already buzzing with anticipation, knowing that this new offering promises to continue the band’s signature blend of shoegazey pop-rock chaos.
The band has been expertly navigating the space between loud, crushing sound and delicate, whispery melodies, creating a compelling sonic landscape that keeps listeners firmly hooked. Their recent releases have demonstrated this dynamic range, offering listeners a journey that shifts effortlessly between intensity and introspection.
The contrast in their recent output is particularly striking. Earlier singles like Slime introduced a wave of pure, shoegazey pop-rock energy. This was followed by Tough Luck, a track that leaned into a more subdued, reflective mood, heavily influenced by artists like Sparklehorse.
Now, the band is delivering a dose of pure, unadulterated catharsis with their latest single, Holladay Park. Despite its brevity—clocking in under two minutes—this track packs an astonishing punch. The chorus explodes with a seismic level of emotional release, driven by guitars that crash in with raw force, demanding attention and knocking you off your feet.
The energy of Holladay Park showcases the band’s ability to harness massive emotional impact within a tight framework. It’s a testament to how How Strange It Is manages to balance intricate layering with moments of explosive, unforgettable sound.