With the release of their sophomore album Mutation, RedHook show they’re a serious force to be reckoned with. This album builds on the promise of their debut Postcard From a Living Hell, with a killer selection of rock cuts that you’ll want to play again and again.
Some might call it an evolution, but mutation seems more appropriate for this spooky rock act who brings us songs like “Cannibal,” “Dr. Frankenstein, “and “Party/Zombie.” They’ve mutated into a band that consistently delivers the best parts of themselves.
“With this record, we wanted to crystallize all the most unique parts of RedHook’s DNA and then put that on steroids,” lead vocalist Emmy Mack explained. “Stronger hooks, braver lyrics, bigger production, wilder collaborations, bolder musical choices, just an evolution in every way. From moments of deep pain and heartbreak to moments of rage and defiance, to moments of joy, celebration and just pure fun, Mutation is an authentic statement of everything we are, and we hope you don’t get bored for a single BPM.”
Some of those wild collaborations include tracks recorded with Alpha Wolf, Holding Absence, and Vana. Their contributions are inspired, but RedHook are every bit as strong without their help. Emmy is one of the most exciting frontwomen in the business. I adore her strong vocals and convictions. You can almost guarantee that this band wouldn’t be calling out misogyny in “Bomb.com” or narcissistic abuse in “Scream 2” if it didn’t have a kick-arse female at the helm. I also appreciate the contributions of her bandmates. This outfit is tight. Without those big drums and big guitar chords RedHook wouldn’t sound nearly as compelling. Everyone has a role to play and they do it so well.
Mutation is everything I love about RedHook but better. If you’re a fan of this quirky rock outfit, I know you will adore this album. And if you weren’t already on the RedHook train, Mutation may be the album that encourages you to get on board. RedHook will support Stand Atlantic on their Was Here regional tour in March and April.
21 March 2025 – Forth Pub, Tommeginne Country/Forth
22 March 2025 – Uni Bar, Mouheneenner Country/Sandy Bay
27 March 2025 – The Governor Hindmarsh, Tarntanya/Adelaide
1 April 2025 – The Basement, Ngambri/Canberra
2 April 2025 – Beer DeLuxe, Bungambrawatha/Albury
4 April 2025 – Torquay Hotel, Wadawurrung Country/Torquay
5 April 2025 – Pier Bandroom, Monmar/Frankston
6 April 2025 – Commercial Hotel, Wurundjeri Balug and Wurundjeri Willam Country/South Morang
9 April 2025 – King Street Hotel, Mulubinba/Newcastle
12 April 2025 – Miami Marketta, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast
13 April 2025 – Solbar, Yuggera Country/Maroochydore
Listen to “HEXXX,” RedHook’s track with Vana, on my new playlist Sounds of Oz Loves Rock. It’s early days so I’m still adding tracks but I hope that playlists like this will be another way you can engage with my blog and discover some fantastic Aussie tunes.
Main photo credit: Luke Shadrick