Some might say that the self-proclaimed Welsh Electro Art-Punk agitators Head Noise might have lost some of the magic that has made their previous back catalogue so special, now that the newly streamlined duo have silenced their critics with this beautiful, chaotic slab of plastic.
From the opening notes of ‘Give Me Head Noise’ to the closing notes of ‘Brr… Tokyo Santa’. This duo have possibly released the album of their career.
One of the many highlights is the sublime pop-tastic ‘Purple Wednesday’. Which is also the non-single exclusive track you get straight away if you pre-order the album – so do yourselves a favour and get this potential 2026 album of the year pre-ordered. Even if it’s just to get your ears on this track alone, it’s worth the dosh.
Armed with their Casio keyboard, sharp riffs, the action doesn’t stop there, especially with the quite frankly brilliant ‘Digital Day Off’. This song, while jarring, holds a mirror up to society’s reliance on digital products. The irony has been lost on me, either, knowing that all of you will be reading this via said items. But still, even so, it’s so catchy that it’s nice to be reminded to take a break.
‘DIY or Die’ is a slice of prime synthwave/punk that recalls Visage and some King to these ears. ‘XTV’ is another piece of aural bliss, that captures nicely everything that makes Head Noise pioneers in a musical scene that is quietly churning out the same old, same old. All I can say is thank the lord for Head Noise!
The best bit of albums like ‘The Noise of Art’ and even bands like Head Noise themselves, is that we get to live and breathe in the art from its birth, its showcase and ultimately wallow in the delightful disarray that is glorious in every way, shape or form.
Head Noise are for everyone, but especially those who love pushing boundaries, be it musical or art, this duo has it all. ‘The Noise of Art’ is what you would get by mixing classic 30 Something era Carter The Unstoppable Sex Machine and the best Synth Pop, New Wave, Punk bands with a glorious lathering of Bostin’ Steve Austin era, We’ve Got A Fuzzbox… And We’re Gonna Use It! was thrown into a microwave for good measure. A timeless classic, way before and of its time, which proudly shows its influences on its sleeves, yet bravely forges its own identity at the same time.
Author: Dave Prince
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