GOBYLNS
Hunki Bobo
Crazysane Records [2024]
Album Overview: Originating from the Eastern Cape of South Africa, GOBLYNS was initially a distant dream for its members until they reunited in Europe years later. The trio’s musical path has now reached its zenith in a vibrant fusion of influences, giving rise to their debut album, Hunki Bobo. The record is an 8-track, mostly instrumental, groover that traverses the realms of raw rock energy and dreamy psychedelia. Recorded during a five-day studio binge in the sweltering heat of July 2023, the album boasts a distinct sound and focus shaped by the creative path of Andre Leo and the artistic vision of Julia Schimautz. The direction on Hunki Bobo is a true kaleidoscopic of soul, psych and rock where every note and rhythm is imbued with emotion and meaning. You can tell that GOBLYNS are living their best life when playing these tunes!
Musical Style: GOBLYNS’ musical style is a dynamic blend of psych groove instrumentals, characterized by hypnotic rhythms, intricate melodies, a few background vocals and immersive textures. Their sound draws inspiration from a diverse array of influences, including Kikagaku Moyo, The Meters, Khruangbin, Budos Band, Surprise Chef, and CAN.
Evolution of Sound: Building upon the foundation established in their previous 5-song EP This is Spaghettification (that was just released in April of last year), Hunki Bobo showcases GOBLYNS’ evolution towards a more refined and ambitious approach. The album reflects the band’s continuous gel and experimentation, resulting in a captivating and entertaining 32 minutes.
Artists with Similar Fire: Fans of Kikagaku Moyo, Karate Boogaloo, Khruangbin, Budos Band, Surprise Chef, and CAN, should check out GOBLYNS. Their stylistic movements within their tracks completely align with these other groups.
Pivotal Tracks: Key tracks on Hunki Bobo include the mesmerizing opener “Sakura,” which sets the tone for the album with its evocative atmosphere and ethereal melodies. The track has some big Black Keys like grooves that oscillate between its more worldly instrumental playing. It is also one song that includes some background vocals that hum along with the flow of the music which I think helps offer a quality uniqueness to the album. Other standout tracks include “Bobo” with its intense back n forth of instruments that has each of the trio battling for supremacy before uniformly coming together with precision. “The Gardener” is one of the funkiest songs on the album with its muscular drum beats and commanding guitars.
Lyrical Strength: As a mostly instrumental band, GOBLYNS’ lyrical strength lies in their ability to evoke emotion and convey a sense of atmosphere through their playing. While the album primarily consists of instrumental tracks, each composition stands out with a distinct mood and energy, inviting listeners into the same headphones as GOBLYNS!
GOBLYNS LINKS
Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp | Crazysane Records
- Khana Bierbood: Monolam [Album Review] - December 4, 2024
- Bill Callahan: The Holy Grail – Bill Callahan’s “Smog” Dec. 10, 2001 Peel Session EP [Album Review] - December 3, 2024
- Kim Deal: Nobody Loves You More [Album Review] - November 22, 2024