The Hellacopters

Overdriver

Nuclear Blast Records

Out January 31

Calm down people, we have NOT been transported back to the 1970s. Sweden’s finest The Hellacopters hit us with their famous retro rock sound and signature vintage vibes without a pair of flares in sight. Well, we can’t comment on what The Hellacopters are wearing, but certainly at Goth Girl Writing HQ if it’s not tight and black then it’s in the bin. Wardrobe chat aside, ‘Overdriver’ is an absolute joy of an album. Instantly loveable melodies, lyrics that give you something to think about, and glossy harmonies with old school groove. As soon as opening track ‘Token Apologies’ fires up, you will smile at its catchy, jaunty, care-free hook laced over choppy keys and slick guitars. ‘Wrong Face On’ showcases what each band member can do – and these master musicians can do a lot. ‘The Stench’ unleashes a slower, more sombre side to ‘Overdriver’. Pacey and punchy ‘Don’t Let Me Bring You Down’ is laced with those signature Hellacopters’ smooth vocals that make this album consistently so damn good. Unless you’ve been delving into yer dad’s record collection recently, or you’re already a Hellacopters fan, you won’t have heard any songs like this for decades. Prepare to change that – because once ‘Overdriver’ drops you’ll have it on repeat for days.