BLVD HVNNY‘s debut album, IX, encompasses the eeriness of Bauhaus and the light-dark contrasts of Depeche Mode and while their inspirations are clear, the project remains original and compelling.
IX delivers a fascinating collection exploring introspection with sincerity and depth. This theme shines through tracks like “Regret Nothing” and “Winter Kills,” both alluding to grappling with aging. Loss resonates poignantly throughout, Zorro-inspired “Joaquin” tackles vengeance sparked by tragedy, while chilling “Scareful” grapples with lost love.
An album by industry veterans naturally experiments boldly. Moments on IX feel like meeting these artists anew. “The Weeping Song” featuring Ross Learmonth offers fantastic reimagining of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds’ original. The choice to lean into trip-hop and electro-pop works brilliantly alongside stellar vocal delivery.
It’s refreshing when familiar faces present different perspectives, and IX provides a captivating glimpse into Cito’s vocal ability through a darker lens. The result is compelling goth rock that honours influences while carving distinct territory.
