HETZE itself has been around since 2017, hailing from Belgium, and they’ve built up a small but solid following since dropping their first LP, “Bedbugs.” The recording process for their new album “Until I Snap” was a bit of a shift from their previous work. They took more time this round, 14 days, to be exact, aiming for a sound that they’re really happy with. They recorded at Celestial Event Studio, which is run by their drummer, Viktor. This is a guy who’s been in metal bands his whole life, so the influence is pretty clear in his drumming – it’s got a metal edge to it, even though HETZE is more in the punk lane.
“We are a fusion of metal drums and guitar riffs with a fastcore twist and hardcore punk vocals.” – comments the band.
Lyrically, “Brainwasher” digs into some heavy topics. It’s inspired by MK-Ultra, the CIA’s mind control program from the Cold War era. The lead singer, Eva, who writes most of the lyrics, was drawn to this dark piece of history, reflecting on how these kinds of experiments might have shaped modern torture techniques. It’s a personal and political statement, wrapped up in a raging punk song.
The video for “Brainwasher” was a DIY effort, typical for the band. Eva worked on it with Bart Bling, who apart from contributing to the artwork, is also a well-known illustrator and tattoo artist. They filmed some of it at a tattoo shop in Brussels, which apparently is a cool spot that sometimes hosts live music.
HETZE is keeping busy with shows in Belgium and has plans for a European tour through France, Spain, and Portugal come September. They’re also eyeing a trip to another continent next year, a first for them.
“Until I Snap” was released worldwide on Loner Cult Records. Later this year the CD version will drop in Europe by Global Help Records and in Japan by Crew For Life records. A tape version will be on Kick Out the Jams in Belgium and Seats of Piss Records in Indonesia.
