When it comes to producing deliciously dark pop, it’s hard to find better than hard-hitting Norwegian flag bearers Highasakite.
Arriving in the UK ahead of an all-encompassing one night stand at London’s Heaven, the indie 5-piece had plenty to live up to following the release of 2016’s Camp Echo.
For those unacquainted with their sound, Highasakite have the ability to evoke a strange sense of dark euphoria. Combining sombre undertones with vibrant pop hooks, the final product can only be described as an addictive musical high. That being said, their latest LP felt somewhat like an unsettling game of Russian roulette; despite acting as a sizeable demonstration of their pop prowess, the album’s highs and lows were vast, leaving little in the form of middle ground.
Much like the album, Highasakite impress live but rely heavily on standout tracks like “Someone Who’ll Get It” and “Golden Ticket“. Those moments of exultation become ever more pronounced once nestled alongside album tracks like “My Name Is Liar” and “Hiroshima“– tracks which become all but filler material in comparison. Whilst the highs were high, the lows mostly consisted of material that didn’t quite make the cut as a single.
There’s no doubt the band have even brighter (and darker) things to come, having built upon 2014’s breakout album Silent Treatment in style. Aside from a scattering of lulls, Highasakite took on London with force and determination, confirming our belief that this Norwegian act is one worth getting excited about.
