Hang Linton's Progressive Musical Retort: a No-holds-Barred Look at Modern Life
Review of 'Demonstrations' EP by Hang Linton: A passionate and unyielding perspective on contemporary Britain
In the music scene, Leeds-based interdisciplinary artist Hang Linton is making waves with their raw, unapologetic sound that pierces the chaos of modern existence. They've recently opened for Yard Act, nabbed the Help Musicians and DJ Mag's Electronic Music Award, and are about to release their debut EP, 'Demonstrations'.
The EP kicks off with 'Blue Light Hike', a track inspired by a racially charged incident Linton and their partner encountered. Trapped by law enforcement before a Black Lives Matter protest in Berlin, the track's instrumentation builds into an explosive post-funk core, married with pounding breakbeats and psychedelic guitar. The unexpected beatboxed outro, however, flips the script, mocking the racial profiling tactics of law enforcement with a playful, sarcastic tone.
'Demonstrations' title track stands as a powerful testament to anti-racism, encapsulating the EP's emotional pulse. The introduction features a cosmic, albeit slightly lengthy, backdrop of twinkling synths and electronic murmurs, as a somber voice declares the racial riots that swept the UK. The atmosphere darkens as the chants of "free Palestine" and "refugees are welcome here" echo, the music's key shifting discordantly, echoing the conflict around us.
Their music gleefully blends nonsensical elements of modern British life with contrasting production. 'Made in Grey Britain', for example, sports an upbeat, bouncy melody but is tempered by Linton's lyrics diving into gentrification, austerity, and the bitter sarcasm in the hook's "la-la-las". 'Radiator' is a fierce commentary on the cost of living, pointing their finger at the unethical forces driving our current crisis. Their agitated spoken word is underscored by a gritty bassline (thanks to Gorillaz bassist Seye Adelekan) and post-punk instrumentation, stirring up turbulence and anxiety.
The closing track 'Wishbones', with its two-tone and psych influences and nod to Jimi Hendrix's 'All Along the Watchtower', serves as a fitting finale. Described by Linton as "an anthem for anyone who feels restricted by societal structures," it echoes Linton's manifesto on 'Demonstrations', a call to action and a critique of our present political and social climate. With discontent and relentless passion at its core, 'Demonstrations' has much to say – if you’ll just listen.
Release Date: November 29, 2024Label: Come Play With Me / EMI North
Time for a Rant: Hang Linton Tour Dates
For those eager to catch this fiery artist in action, here are the confirmed tour dates for Hang Linton as of June 2025:
- July 10, 2025 – The Blue Note, New York City, NY
- July 24, 2025 – The Troubadour, Los Angeles, CA
- August 5, 2025 – The Fillmore, San Francisco, CA
- August 20, 2025 – House of Blues, Chicago, IL
- September 12, 2025 – The Metro, Seattle, WA
For the most up-to-date information and ticket availability, you should check out Hang Linton's official website or social media pages. Get ready to rage against the machine!
- Hang Linton's music, evidenced in their debut EP 'Demonstrations', blends various genres including electronic, funk, and psychedelic rock, creating a unique sound that reflects modern life.
- Rather than shying away from social issues, Linton's music tackles topics like racism, gentrification, and political discord, providing a critical commentary on contemporary society.
- Booking agencies and music critics on social media have been praising Linton's raw and unapologetic performances, with comparisons being made to Jimi Hendrix and other legendary musicians.
- The music scene has taken notice of Linton's talent, as demonstrated by their recent awards and high-profile opening acts, positioning them as a promising new voice in the entertainment industry.
