‘Countdown to Shutdown’ by The Hives – Single Rating: 4/5 ★★★★☆
Swedish rockers The Hives are undeniably back with a bang, and certainly cooking listening to the evidence of their latest two singles releases from upcoming sixth studio album ‘The Death of Randy Fitzsimmons’ released on August 11th.
Their first single ‘Bogus Operandi’ was one we reviewed previously. It has pretty much been a constant go-to on this writer’s shuffle playlist since then.
The band have now released their second single this year entitled ‘Countdown to Shutdown’, and it doesn’t disappoint.
Influence
Based yet again around a huge guitar and accompanying bass riff, ‘Countdown to Shutdown’ takes on a bit of Green Day and Queens Of The Stone Age influence. Pelle Almqvist’s lead vocals are again spectacular. Also, despite being unsurprisingly rip-roaring you can hear a vocal melody line not to too dissimilar to The Doors’ Jim Morrison. Is it as strong as ‘Bogus Operandi’? That’s debatable – but the upcoming album is sure to be a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining listen. We can’t wait……
The Hives’ music videos are also brilliant, and Countdown to Shutdown’s is no different. Directed by SNASK, it sees a bunch of office bods playing the track live with the lead singer suspiciously looking like Almqvist in prosthetics, before the real Hives appear and show the viewers how it’s done. The video is an absolute riot, providing non-stop laughter throughout. One of the things that makes The Hives truly endearing is their ability to not take themselves too seriously, even though they are undeniably an exceptional act.
An example is when you read Almqvist’s quote on Countdown to Shutdown’s press release. ‘A versatile banger for all your summer rock needs. Approximately 37 per cent more effective than the closest competitor and to help your Q2 and Q3 results’. It quotes like this that make us love The Hives even more.
Be Sure To Follow The Playlist Below For More New Music!
- GROUPLOVE, ‘Cheese’ – Single Review ★★★☆☆ - July 10, 2023
- The View, ‘Woman of the Year’ – Single Review ★★★★★ - July 3, 2023
- The Hives, ‘Countdown to Shutdown’ – Single Review ★★★★☆ - June 19, 2023