Canberran five-piece Hands Like Houses have really outdone themselves on their third album, Dissonants. It bursts out of the speakers with the scintillating first single I Am, and continues to scintillate for the length and breadth of its 12 ripping tracks.
This band’s grasp of dynamics is wonderful to behold. They seamlessly blend driving, fist-pumping heavy rock with poppy moments, as well as touches of sweet ambience. They even stray into metal territory on occasion – not too much, though, just enough to give the listener a quick smash in the face before pulling back again.
They have crafted some magical songs with interesting arrangements and stunning, soaring choruses delivered by versatile frontman Trenton Woodley. There isn’t a weak track amongst the 12 on offer here, with the exhilarating Degrees of Separation being the standout.
Hands Like Houses are difficult to categorise, which is a good thing. Possibly a little too heavy to be called a rock band, and definitely not heavy enough to be labelled metal, or even metalcore/post hardcore – they are their own band, doing their own thing, and doing it rather well.
By Rod Whitfield
