The Hudson Valley—where stunning nature meets concrete and industry. This is where Open Head come from, and their new album What Is Success (Wharf Cat) paints a vivid picture of their home. Brutal and raw, ugly and grimy, yet at times delicate and beautiful.
It’s experimental rock with detours into noise, punk, and electronica. Never too jagged or dissonant, often embracing pop moments, and even layering brooding trip-hop vibes on House. Languid and indifferent, then suddenly explosive. A challenging yet deeply rewarding album.
Open Head haven’t been around for long, but with this record, the New Yorkers sound fully arrived. The album is refined, always in motion. A definite grower—the first listen is for orientation, the second has your body moving along.
Success glides thoughtfully over a rough surface. Monotones flirts with catchiness before turning dramatic. And N.Y. Frills lays down a thrilling noise-rock foundation.
Complex, intricate, yet never exhausting—Open Head have crafted an album that’s perfect for when your mind craves something to unravel.
Open Head – What Is Success: Experimental noise rock – RIFL
