Hella: Tripper (Sargent House, 8/30/11)
Hella: “Headless”
[audio:http://alarm-magazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Hella_Headless.mp3|titles=Hella: “Headless”]In 2002, a wild math-rock duo named Hella released a much-ballyhooed debut that sounded impossible to perform with just two members. From there, guitarist Spencer Seim and drummer Zach Hill expanded their sound (and level of complexity) with synthesizers and additional members.
Now, following a few years off to pursue other projects, Seim and Hill are back as Hella’s core, releasing their first album based around guitar and drums since Hold Your Horse Is, that 2002 debut. It’s a welcome return to original form, one that is both “accessible” and melodic despite being highly technical.