The Birmingham dream-weavers in Swim Deep have returned with their fifth studio album, ‘Hum‘, and it is a glorious ride from start to finish. After undergoing a surprise lineup change and apparently finding their new guitarist hauling beer kegs at a local pub, the band has bounced back with the kind of infectious energy usually reserved for toddlers on a sugar rush. It is a musically adventurous and profoundly uplifting record that proves this grassroots indie outfit is completely incapable of running out of creative steam, turning personal evolution and that everyday bullshit into pure musical gold.
The album kicks off with a massive bang on “Pieces Of You“, a track so beautifully drenched in roaring clouds of that alt-rock distortion that it might just rattle the fillings right out of your teeth, but having you come back for more… of course after your dental visit. From there, the band effortlessly sweeps you into “You, Me and Mary“, a gorgeous, dizzyingly sweet tribute to family life that balances tender nostalgia with a rhythm that gets your good leg moving and bouncing around your place on a hot summer day. I mean, it’s pretty fucking hot out here in Milwaukee when I’m writing this, so I recommend all movement being made in front of an AC or fan. Another massive standout is “Mud“, a deliciously woozy, festival-ready anthem that wraps you up in a warm hug of indie rock of yesteryear while keeping its boots firmly planted in the fresh musical landscape of today.
‘Hum‘ feels like a brilliant reassurance that everything is going to be just fine, serving as an exceptional reminder that Swim Deep is still chasing the dream with absolute conviction. It is easily their heaviest, most confident, and most adventurous work in years, making it an essential addition to your summer listening queue. If you are looking for an album that wraps heavy themes of life and resilience into bright, chiming melodies and massive guitar riffs, look no further because this release is a fucking gem. Pick your copy up today with the links below or stream it at the usual spots.
Links of interest:
https://www.instagram.com/swimdeepbaby/
https://www.roughtrade.com/en-us/product/swim-deep/hum-1
https://www.normanrecords.com/records/213991-swim-deep-hum