Hyde Out is a dynamic London-based duo that fuses nostalgia and modern innovation to create a truly unique soundscape. Formed in 2014 by musicians Omar Merlo and Jaka Levstek, Hyde Out has spent a decade refining their craft, blending the elements of British pop rock, folk, and electropop with contemporary musical influences. This genre-bending approach draws on the rich history of 90s British pop rock, 60s and 70s folk, and the electronic sensibilities of the 80s, all woven together with a fresh and inventive twist. Omar, with a background in leading bands across Europe and Australia, brings a wide-ranging experience and musical depth to the project, while Jaka’s extensive collaborations with both popular and classical artists have lent Hyde Out a sophisticated edge that appeals to audiences worldwide. Together, their combined talents form a cohesive, magnetic sound, marked by introspective lyricism, emotive vocals, and rich instrumentation.
Over the years, Hyde Out has captured listeners’ hearts with a series of releases, including the critically acclaimed albums “Smoke and Mirrors” (2020) and “Tunnel Vision” (2022). While “Smoke and Mirrors” showcased the duo’s softer, melodic side, “Tunnel Vision” leaned heavily into rock, with intense anthems and gripping melodies. These works have established Hyde Out as a band capable of both delicate beauty and hard-hitting energy. Known for an artistic vision that balances heart and innovation, Hyde Out has taken fans on journeys through light and shadow, weaving stories of resilience and introspection. Now, their latest album “Moonfactory” promises to push their craft to new levels, blending all the styles and influences they’ve drawn upon in their career into a cohesive, yet exploratory new sound.
Prepare to embark on a captivating journey with Hyde Out’s latest album, “Moonfactory”, released on November 6th, 2024. This genre-defying collection reveals the duo’s mastery in merging past and present, offering a powerful blend of 90s British pop rock, 70s folk, and 80s electropop with a contemporary twist. Each track on *Moonfactory* is a meticulously crafted piece of art, creating a musical experience that is both comforting and thrilling. Fans of Hyde Out’s earlier melodic work in “Smoke and Mirrors” will find much to love here, while “Moonfactory”’s lyrical introspection and genre-blending styles make it a standout addition to their evolving discography.
Moonfactory Album Track List:
Oblivious:
“Oblivious” opens “Moonfactory” with a warm invitation into the lush sonic landscapes Hyde Out has crafted in this album. From the very first notes, the song establishes a cozy, almost hypnotic rhythm, drawing listeners into a captivating world that feels both comforting and invigorating. The initial vocal harmonies are rich and layered, wrapping around you like a blanket, with an almost magical quality. These harmonies set the stage for the subtle, electrifying guitar work that soon enters, providing an underlying energy that feels as gentle as it is commanding. The balance between the two is flawless, creating an ambiance that is both mesmerizing and soothing.
At the 0:24 mark, “Oblivious” begins to unveil even more of its magic. The guitar, which was previously subtle, fully awakens, its notes intertwining gracefully with a deep, elegant bassline. The bass adds a sense of richness and depth, anchoring the song in a way that complements the lightness of the guitar strings. It’s as if each note has been chosen to reflect a piece of the band’s soul, creating a sound that’s immersive and comforting. The interplay between these instruments builds a layered, intricate world that is both thrilling and calming, and it’s hard not to get lost in this delicate yet resonant harmony.
Adding to this richness is the lead vocalist, whose emotive, resonant voice brings the song’s lyrics to life with a grace and passion that feels incredibly genuine. His vocals blend seamlessly with those of the backup singers, creating a symphonic feel that elevates the song to something celestial. When the drum beat enters, it adds a steady, pulsating groove that shifts the rhythm ever so slightly, blending with the gentle guitar strings and profound basslines to create a cozy yet groovy flow. This rhythmic consistency carries the song with an effortless beauty, enhanced by the interplay of subtle piano undertones that lend an added richness to the track. Altogether, “Oblivious” is a piece of sonic bliss—a song that’s both uplifting and deeply soothing, inviting listeners to move without moving, feeling its energy with every beat.
Only Words:
“Only Words” from Hyde Out’s “Moonfactory” is a delicately crafted piece of contemporary rock, exuding an irresistible calm and sweetly captivating aura. It opens with soft guitar strings that immediately paint an atmospheric landscape, one that feels both tranquil and expansive. This tender introduction moves in a steady downtempo progression, setting a soothing stage for the lead singer’s voice to emerge. His vocals are gentle yet powerful, carrying the lyrics with a quiet confidence and precision, his tone warm and resonant. There’s a simplicity in this initial phase that feels almost otherworldly, drawing listeners into a space of serene beauty before the song begins to unfold more deeply.
A turning point arrives with the subtle introduction of tingling percussive elements, a shift that adds a new layer of texture and signals a progression in the song’s journey. It’s here that “Only Words” begins to blossom fully, revealing an intricate interplay of steady drum grooves, deep resonant bass, and vibrant guitar riffs. The arrangement is effortlessly cohesive, as each instrument complements the other with perfect balance, while gentle string melodies float over this contemporary rock foundation. The groove shifts into a mid-tempo rhythm that feels cozy yet upbeat, creating a laid-back vibe that’s irresistibly inviting. The combination of these elements builds a soundscape that feels both refined and invigorating—a space where listeners can settle in comfortably while still feeling the pulse of something lively and groovy.
As the song progresses, the lead singer’s voice dances gracefully with the rhythm, growing in vitality and elegance with each passing moment. Double-tracked and backup vocals enhance this effect, giving the track a richer, warmer sound that fills the soundscape beautifully. The subtle melodic shifts bring a fresh appeal while maintaining a steady rhythm, crafting a consistent flow that’s simultaneously soothing and engaging. The understated percussive layers add a final touch of magic, a subtle foundation that elevates the track’s allure and completes this majestic musical piece. With “Only Words,” Hyde Out delivers a track that feels timeless—a delicate yet vibrant creation that’s certain to linger long after the last note fades.
Bring On:
“Bring On” from Hyde Out’s “Moonfactory” welcomes listeners into a sonic dreamscape, a place where music feels like a warm, gentle embrace. Right from the start, it’s the guitar strings that cast the spell, their celestial tones resonant and emotive, laced with a light percussive touch that conjures an almost fairytale-like quality. The combination of these strings with subtle underlying melodies builds a serene, paradisiacal soundscape, capturing a slow, hypnotic tempo that draws you deeper with every note. The lead singer’s voice then enters with a soothing, passionate presence, carrying the lyrics in serene, rich tones that lend depth to the music. As his vocals blend with the emerging bassline, the track gains a richer, fuller texture, maintaining a cozy, laid-back vibe that’s impossible to resist.
The magic continues to unfold as backup vocals weave into the soundscape, layering the song with an ethereal harmony that feels almost transcendent. These harmonies have an enchanting quality, lifting the song to a new emotional height. When the drumbeat finally joins, it does so with a subtle groove, blending effortlessly with the soft yet vibrant percussive elements, creating a rhythm that’s laid-back yet irresistibly engaging. The interplay between the drums, the thrill of the guitar, the smooth basslines, and the ethereal strings creates a cozy downtempo progression, with just enough rhythmic pulse to sway along. There’s a soulful hint of piano that peeks through as well, adding a warmth and highlighting the song’s soft but persistent groove. This balance of calm and energy is beautifully executed, grounding the song in an enchanting rhythm that captivates without overwhelming.
With each layer, “Bring On” reveals a richness that makes you want to linger in its embrace. The backup vocals, in particular, elevate the track, amplifying the emotional depth and giving it an elegance that feels timeless. Despite the song’s subtle melodic shifts, it’s filled with moments that keep you hanging on, craving more of its tranquil, hypnotic charm. Hyde Out has crafted a musical landscape that’s lush and inviting, blending gentleness with an infectious rhythm that leaves a lasting impression. In “Bring On,” they’ve captured a moment of magic, a piece that stays with you long after the music fades.
Go High:
“Go High” from Hyde Out’s “Moonfactory” is an intense, high-energy anthem that unleashes an electrifying rock sound from the very first note. The track begins with a deceptive synth melody, a brief calm before the storm, giving no hint of the sonic explosion about to unfold. At the 0:06 mark, the song roars to life, unleashing a relentless surge of guitar riffs, pounding drums, and maddening basslines that coalesce into a whirlwind of raw, dynamic energy. It’s powerful, and every beat pulses with a fierce, almost rebellious spirit. This is rock at its boldest, with each instrument driving forward in a fast-paced rhythm that is both groovy and commanding. The intensity is palpable and makes the track feel like an unstoppable force.
The lead vocalist matches the instrumental intensity with a voice that is equally bold and vibrant. His delivery is powerful and unwavering, soaring above the wall of sound with a richness that gives the song an added depth. His voice embodies the song’s energetic spirit, giving it a commanding presence that resonates throughout. Layered harmonies from the backup vocals add texture, warmth, and a balanced contrast to the lead’s intensity, making the overall sound fuller and richer. Together, the vocals and instrumentation combine into an intricate tapestry of sound that feels both complex and natural. The interaction between the lead vocals and the backup creates a resonant harmony, lifting the song’s energy even further.
As “Go High” progresses, its intensity never falters. The track seems to escalate with every passing second, taking listeners on a sonic rollercoaster that’s thrilling and intense. The guitar riffs, especially, are phenomenal—they add unpredictability and freshness to the song’s core sound. These riffs drive the track to new heights, unleashing bursts of energy that keep listeners captivated, wondering what twist will come next. Yet despite the wild fluctuations in rhythm and melody, there’s a seamless consistency in its energy that ties everything together. Hyde Out has crafted an exhilarating experience in “Go High,” a track that embodies rock’s untamed spirit with an infectious vitality that leaves you breathless by the end.
“Moonfactory” is an album that rewards repeated listens, offering something new with each spin. It’s an album for those who appreciate the art of musical storytelling, blending the old with the new in a way that feels both nostalgic and innovative. With their eclectic approach, Hyde Out proves their ability to create music that not only pushes genre boundaries but also resonates on a deeply emotional level. This album is highly recommended for fans of genre-blending rock and pop, and for anyone seeking an authentic musical journey that captures the beauty and complexity of life.
For more information about Hyde Out, click on the icons below.
