Brisbane based indie-rockers Hey Geronimo have just unveiled their sophomore album Content. The eleven track concept album utilises artificial intelligence to replace an exited guitarist, resulting in a convenient yet ironic effect. Self-produced, and featuring the AI dubbed ‘Alex’ on half a dozen tracks, Content is a bizarre and bold exploration into the future and the ever evolving technological landscape surrounding us.
Listening to Content feels like entering a spaceship and taking a ride around Planet Earth, looking down at all the little humans glued to the glowing screens they hold in their hands. On Content, the band have removed any irrelevant instrumentation, instead focussing on a digital, punk rock sound. It’s a sound that has also been influenced by the group listening to the likes of XTC, The Beatles, Roger Waters, Blur and The Flaming Lips whilst making the record. Content is a big step forward for Hey Geronimo.
According to guitarist and singer Pete Kilroy, “one theme of Content isn’t explicitly about how technology addiction is weird; it’s about how weird it is that nobody thinks technology addiction is weird.” With titles such as “Working For Google”, “Disconnect” and “Y3K”, the concept is clear throughout the record’s duration, as are the band’s musical influences.
The aforementioned “Working For Google” is one of the heaviest sounding songs on the album, perfectly hitting that digital punk-rock vibe. “Bad Citizen” is another track that ticks that box, offering a fast paced amalgamation of sounds that is bound to be great live. “Young Again” initially sees the group slow down the tempo for a dreamy tune, somewhat reminiscent of Pink Floyd, bursting into a poppy and vibrant mid section, before once again returning to a blissful mellowness.
Content is a journey well worth taking. This album’s direction and ingenuity is a huge positive for Hey Geronimo, and the live renditions are sure to be hotly anticipated.
FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Content is available September 7th.
Hey Geronimo Content Album Tour
Fri 2/11 – Brisbane @ Netherworld, Fortitude Valley (Free Show)
Fri 16/11 – Sydney @ 107 Projects
Sat 17/11 – Melbourne @ Yah Yahs
Get your tickets HERE
