Hooverphonic’s latest album ‘Fake is the New Dope’, which was released on March 24, marks a new milestone in the rich history of these Belgian musical powerhouses. Since their emergence in 1995, Hooverphonic have made an undeniable mark on the global music scene, and with this latest work they show that they are still relevant and influential.
Over the years, Hooverphonic has stood out for their ability to experiment with sound and genres, while still staying true to their signature style. This is no different on ‘Fake is the New Dope’. The album is steeped in that signature Hooverphonic sound that fans know and love so well, but it also shows a refreshing evolution in their musical approach, making the album sound a bit darker and more introverted.
One of the highlights of the album is undoubtedly the production, which is, as usual, top quality. Alex Callier, the driving force behind Hooverphonic, shines here with his mastery of sound and his ability to create an atmosphere that is both immersive and intriguing. Tracks like ‘And then I Find You’ testify to this production quality, where the enchanting melodies and layered arrangements form an enchanting whole that is reminiscent of icons such as Madonna and Kylie Minogue.
But it’s not just the production and sound that make this album so captivating. The songs themselves are strong and compelling, with Geike Arnaert taking the listener on an emotional journey with her distinctive voice. Each song on ‘Fake is the New Dope’ is steeped in her signature diction and interpretation, leaving a lasting impression long after the last note has faded.
Songs like ‘A Guiding star at Night’ and ‘Heatwave’ are perfect examples of Hooverphonic’s ability to experiment with different sounds and styles, while still staying true to their roots in trip hop and electronic music. These songs invite the listener to dance, dream and lose themselves in the enchanting world of Hooverphonic.
With ‘Fake is the New Dope’ Hooverphonic proves once again why they are one of the most respected and influential bands from Belgium. This album is a tribute to their long and successful career, and a promise of much more to come. With its compelling melodies, layered arrangements and profound lyrics, ‘Fake is the New Dope’ undoubtedly deserves a solid 8 out of 10. Hooverphonic remains a leading star in today’s music scene, and this album is living proof of that. (8/10) (Hooverphonic CBVA)