New material from Hiva Oa has been a long time coming. Sometimes, it seems, a period of inactivity is better for a band than one of constant creation. With the release of their forthcoming EP mk2 (part 1), core members Stephen Houlihan and Christine Tubridy departed Edinburgh, returning to their native Ireland seeking renewed inspiration. Hiva Oa retain the mystery and ambition of their former incarnations, but inject a heavy thrum to their intricate patchwork style, and turn their attentions to themes of fear, loneliness, abandonment and awakening.
On lead single A Great Height the band continue their controlled experimentation by marrying primal, dizzying electronica and a swelling bass hum, with minimal guitar patterns to create a tightly wound, suffocating and intense atmosphere that sets the tone for the EP. Hiva Oa have become masters of developing atmospheres proving that, for them, a visit to old pastures has worked wonders. Hiva Oa is: Stephen Houlihan, Christine Tubridy, Matthew Collings, Daithi McNabb, Chris McCorry
Hiva Oa: Astroturfing
Hiva Oa: Astroturfing Lyrics:
A solid life. Sold as lies.
While so and so, hangs around.
Wait a minute, let me in
I found another way
Another way to see this through.
Lets take another little pill
I promise not to let you leave.
Just take another little pill.
I promised I would see this through.
My life by your side
Your eyes, now blind
I’m alive when I’ve restrained myself
I saw myself as what?
My pride?
Your life is not worth it
I’m alive when you’re beside yourself
I soiled myself, and for what?
