Single Review: Animal

New Zealand alternative post-punk inspired (Or lovelorn vet nurse shadow-pop) songwriter Hannah Curwood from Hannah In The Wars has just released a new single Animal. A unique and totally enjoyable song, which is as bizarre as it is loveable.

What grabbed my attention first as I scrolled through up and coming new releases, was the in your face statement on the album (single) cover. It says “Time Is A Cunt”. I tend to agree. Secondly I have reviewed Hannah In The Wars in the past and I have been impressed by the distinctive and unconventional style. With inspiration coming from the likes of P J Harvey and Nick Cave, Hannah has developed a gloriously moody, eclectic and dramatic sound.

The lyrics go something like “Treat me like you would your dog. Touch my face, be kind, be soft” I was left wondering where she was going with this. The song balances out the dark with the light. Hannah is a very talented and interesting songwriter as well as, in my opinion a stunning vocalist.

A touch of violin adds to the track, giving it a mystical jazzy/blues /alternative folk sound. Hard to pin point but hauntingly beautiful.

There have been collaborations in the past with the likes of Roger O’Donnell (The Cure), Shayne Carter (Dimmer, Straightjacket Fits) and Graeme Downs (The Verlaines) among many others. Currently Hannah (who is based in London), is writing her new album “whilst experiencing a year of magical thinking”.

There is a music video to accompany Animal, but I didn’t see a dog or any reference to time. Staring 16 year old Port Chalmers local Tane Elvis Cotton, it is poignant in its simplicity and adds further contrast between the statement on the album cover and the song itself. Genius.

I can’t take the credit for writing this line, but it sums up Animal perfectly and I love it! “This melodic, gentle pop anthem is ripe and rich, bursting with melodic vocal and violin hooks that will crawl under your skin and resonate within the confines of your skull for many days”.

Hannah In The Wars is one of my favourite female artists/band to come out of New Zealand. Never failing to impress me.