Hooverphonic

Hooverphonic's a renowned Belgian electronic outfit whose music I only discovered earlier this year. They were part of the '90s trip-hop scene, right up there with the likes of Massive Attack, UNKLE, Tricky... I have only listened to two of their albums, 'Blue Wonder Power Milk' and 'The Magnificent Tree', and on each of those two is a totally outstanding song that overshadowed the rest, though there are indeed other fine moments. 'This Strange Effect' is a classic of its genre. So grandeur and hypnotic it is that I can't believe that nobody has put up a video of Buffy and Angel slow dancing seductively to this tune on YouTube yet. 'Mad About You' is another mindblowing number, with dramatic strings arrangement and emotionally captivating vocals.
As I was googling them for catching up, I was surprised to find out that the band is still active and a new album, tentatively-titled "The President of the LSD Golf Club", will be out in Benelux in October 8, and the rest of the world in early 2008. Lead single 'Expedition Impossible' already got a video shot (which you can watch here), and based on first listen, they seem to aim for an edgier, live sound. Yes, the single's quite good, and now I'm definitely looking out for the full release this fall. It's just nice music like this is still being made. Be sure to also check out their excellent cover of Depeche Mode's 'Shake The Disease'. All 3 highly recommended.

Hooverphonic - This Strange Effect
(Blue Wonder Power Milk, 1998)
Hooverphonic - Mad About You
(The Magnificent Tree, 2000)
Hooverphonic - Shake The Disease
(For The Masses: Music: Depeche Mode (Tribute), 1998)


Their MySpace/Official Site