HEAD NOISE

Metric Squid (Twomantapeco)

Head Noise, the post-apocalyptic synthpop trio from the south Wales valleys, have re-emerged with Metric Squid: an eight-song, synthesiser-packed mini-album with an electro-rock meets new wave vibe. The four original songs have Head Noise’s distinctive energy, while a further four covers replicate their brash sound.

Comprised of vocalist Mitch Tennant plus Jordan Brill and Wayne Bassett – both responsible for synth and guitar – this cassette release, via local label Twomantapeco, has sleeve art with a retro arcade vibe. Metric Squid introduces itself with an original song, Sea Of Noise, whose driving synths pan around the listener which, alongside punchy motorik drumbeats, equals an immersive listen.

Throughout this release, Tennant’s punky vocals guide the listener through the chaotic layers of synths, and among the covers chosen – including A Flock Of Seagulls’ Telecommunication and Timbuk 3’s The Future’s So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades – the catchy take on Mi-Sex’s Computer Games is a fantastic example of how Head Noise capture that iconic new wave sound.

words AMANDA HYNAM