Hood - Outside Closer

Hood
Outside Closer
Domino Recording Co.
Grade: A-

After a brief intro track, the true opening salvo of “The Negatives” launches you into the magical world of this four-piece from Leeds, England. Though Hood has been around for a decade and a half, it is only recently that they have been getting the recognition they apparently deserve. This is probably even more true on this side of the Atlantic. Their previous record Cold House piqued listeners’ interest, scoring vast critical acclaim. On Outside Closer, Hood includes a caldron of local musicians to flush out the songs, adding layers of strings, keys and electronics. The complexity and wealth of sounds included in compositions such as “Any Hopeful Thoughts Arrive” is just stunning. In many ways, Hood is like a brilliant instrumental group who decided to add breathy, ambient vocals to develop a complete package. Providing the mood and atmosphere of some favorites from Temporary Residence Ltd, Hood brings the songs further home with lyrical purpose and, of course, handclaps. The nine tracks average at around five minutes with every strung out, emphasized utterance as on “End of One Train Working.” Hood probably work their most pop on the electronic-beat and synth-based “The Lost You;” and this is where the Englishness flows fresh again. Though songs like “Any Hopeful Thoughts Arrive” and “Closure” are compelling, the forthcoming single “The Negatives” still steals the show. Seemingly, “The Negatives” compile and compress all that is Hood into one stellar track. This latest from Hood certainly caught us off-guard. Outside Closer is the perfect disc mellow out from any metal high or to accompany you on your day of work.