A lot of bands are releasing singles to please the business. Belgian modern progressive/post-metal bulldozer HIPPOTRAKTOR release controlled demolitions.
While most bands are busy chasing algorithms, HIPPOTRAKTOR are busy crushing tectonic plates. Their new single, « A Different Now » doesn’t ask for your attention : it takes it by force.
Somewhere between, DVNE, Gojira, Meshuggah, PSYCHONAUT, Textures and The Ocean, the track serves as a crushing and emotionally charged first glimpse into their forthcoming third album, ‘Annihilist’, due on October 2 via Pelagic Records (BEAR, Hypno5e, PSYCHONAUT, The Ocean…).
Emerging from Mechelen’s fertile heavy music underground (Pothamus, PSYCHONAUT…), HIPPOTRAKTOR have steadily evolved from the towering riffs and intricate rhythms of their acclaimed debut ‘Meridian’ into one of Europe’s most compelling modern metal acts. With ‘Stasis’, they expanded their sonic palette through soaring melodies, cathartic dynamics and ever-growing progressive ambition, cementing a reputation built as much on fearless songwriting as on formidable live performances.
« A Different Now » captures HIPPOTRAKTOR at their most focused and powerful yet, blending crushing heaviness, atmospheric depth and emotional intensity into a track that hints at the sheer scope and ambition of ‘Annihilist’. Having conquered stages from Graspop and Alcatraz to ArcTanGent and Motocultor, the Belgian outfit continue their ascent with a sound that is unmistakably their own — and increasingly impossible to ignore.
