Bristol’s Naut release their debut LP under the Season Of Mist label after a short series of single and EP releases that have done enough to garner the attention of the underground music world. Enveloped in post-punk and swathed in gothic tones and electronic sounds, they mix an immersive vibe that combines darkness with an uncanny accessibility. Built upon demo’s before and during lock down, they now present “Hunt”; an exploration and an immersion into the world of post-punk and covered in darkness.
Opening slice, “Dissent” lays out their stall. The ‘80’s electro sounds and atmospheric vocals combine the apocalyptic bleakness of Killing Joke with the groove of Sisters Of Mercy. Dissonant, skewed sounds appear on “All The Days” with Laura Taylor’s synth’s providing a hypnotic platform under what is a chilling, dark aura. The thin, razor edge guitar on “Gold & Death” leans into a Cult sound before the album finds a sweet spot on “Damocles” with Gavin Laubscher’s hushed, moody vocals.
The band move between relatively stripped down guitar tones on tracks like “8 In 3” and more lush, smooth offerings on “Unity Of Opposites” where the Ghost styled pop sensibilities give the album an accessible, radio friendly quality that’s hard to beat. The scything riff on “Nightfall” sits on top of a delicious groove before the full Killing Joke inspired tone of closing track “Watchers” which is custom made for audience participation.
“Hunt” is a neat slab of goth tinged post-punk. Taking influence from the early ‘80’s scene, it offers up dark atmospheres that have a danceable quality to them. Interest in Naut has been on the increase and with displays like this, it’s not hard to see why. Definitely a band to keep an eye on.
(7/10 Johnny Zed)
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