Live Review: PREMIERE: Herbert ‘Even’ (Official Video)

There’s been a number of artists making a seminal comeback. Particularly those who have been influencers, have disappeared for a while, and have since come back with some incredible developments.

Off the top of my head, Aphex Twin and Blur particularly fit this bill, but also HERBERT.

Although Matthew Herbert has been releasing concept albums in recent years (see Plat Du Jour and Bodily Functions), he's taken a break from dance music that's lasted nine years after the release of his incredibly well seasoned album, Scale. Considering that album featured over 635 instruments; including breakfast cereal, gas pumps and coffins (thx wiki) - Herbert has definitely got nothing to prove.

We’re super excited for his forthcoming release, so to celebrate, we’re lucky enough to be hosting the premier of his newest single and video, ‘Even’. It will be featured on the upcoming album, The Shakes, which is to be released at the end of the month through Caroline.

The video is this eclectic still that plays with you whilst the track progresses. Its dark, and the shot of the wall featuring some rather interesting items plays with light very subtly, keeping your attention right until the end.

The single itself is absolutely gorgeous. The production is eerie, distant and feels like something created for The Shining or haunting thrillers alike. It’s the combination of the airy female vocals with the glass-like hollow progression floating like the atmosphere above.

About midway through, there's a huge tonal shift that he's played with through texture. It becomes even more light and airy, feeling a lot more ambient than before.

Herbert isn’t just a musician. He’s an artist that isn’t afraid to push boundaries with his singles, videos and even the intention of his output. Although ‘Even’ is just a taste of what’s to come, we’re even more excited for the release of The Shakes.

It will be released May 29 via Caroline International.

Herbert will also be performing in Australia at the following dates for VIVID Live:

Friday 22nd May

Prince Bandroom, Melbourne

Saturday 23rd May

The Studio, Sydney Opera House (VIVID)

SOLD OUT

Words by Caitlin Medcalf

LISTEN TO NEW MUSIC HERE

SEE ALSO:

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PIECEY ‘WOMEN ARE BEAUTIFUL’ (RADIO EDIT)

BEN FROST ‘RARE DECAY’ (OFFICIAL VIDEO)