I Break Horses – “Hearts”
Posted by Todd Hamm
The drum pulse and the winding static at the onset of "Hearts" feels like the prelude to something intense; some drum and bass at a warehouse rave, although the vintage-looking footage (which recalls Fleet Foxes' recent "Grown Ocean" video) in the corresponding video says something gentler is happening. As the farm and stream visuals float by, the electric keys drift in, the kick eases to make room for the ambient melody, and it's all gravy. The sound is very dream-pop, like a rural Beach House, yet not nearly as sedated. This is the first single from Stockholm duo I Break Horses' (Smog reference) debut album (also called Hearts), which is set to be released August 16th on I KILL LOVE Records in the U.S., and it's quite beautifully put together. Though Maria Lindén's voice sneaks in all echo-ey with the effects early on, she doesn't take a leading role until the midpoint in the track. She garnishes the tune for few measures, holding the spotlight, then fades to the background as the beat rides its course. At the song's conclusion, Lindén and her musical partner Fredrik Balck tune down the last, lingering note to ensure a slightly anti-pretty ending to a very pretty song as the black clouds creep by in time-lapse. IBH is officially on our radar.
June 9th, 2011 - 23:38
THIS IS AMAZING!!! Thank you so much for sharing. I love it. Best I’ve heard this year by far.