ABERDEEN BAND HITLIST SHOWCASE POTENTIAL IN NEW RELEASE ‘BEAUTIFUL DISASTER’

‘BEAUTIFUL DISASTER’ MARKS THE SECOND SINGLE FOR HITLIST

For a band who have only just released their second single last week, Aberdeen’s Hitlist are probably one of the biggest prospective names within the northern city’s live circuit. Supporting the likes of The Snuts, The Sherlocks and Skylights to most recently opening for Afflecks Palace, the Aberdeen’s boys are proving to be a favourite amongst new indie fans north and south of the border. Gaining support from BBC Scotland Introducing, Tenement TV and B12 Entertainment, Hitlist can now add Northern Exposure praise to that accolade.

Said new single, ‘Beautiful Disaster‘ follows 2023’s debut release ‘Dancing In The Rain‘ and it shows early progression and potential for the young quartet. Opening with a distorted dreamy guitar tone, the track is swiftly reminiscent of indie pop bands such Vistas or Sea Girls; echoing what are likely influences on Hitlist.

What is a strong intro unfortunately falls a little flat once shifting to the first verse. “I tell her everything, but I find it hard to trust her/I do everything, but I just can’t satisfy her” sings lead vocalist Callum Jones in the opening couple of lines. Referencing a troublesome romance, the songs theme is one which is simple yet likely familiar. Building to a climatic chorus, ‘Beautiful Disaster‘ plays safe yet delivers indie sing-a-long value, worthy of ear worming you for days.

Verse two flows much smoother and you can feel a the shift in momentum here. Utilising the layering in production to create a more anthemic sound, the second verse holds a lot more passion in delivery despite the recycled lyrics. Continuing to generate force, the song leads to intense finale which strums out to fade.

I do like this song but it feels unfinished. The opening riff and anthemic build up show ambition and steer towards something radio worthy, however, it just doesn’t quite pull together by end. The repeated lyrics don’t do much to showcase the bands writing potential and it lacks personal depth which this style of music really needs to stand out and connect with listeners. Regardless of my opinion on this track though, it’s fair to say that Hitlist are thriving on the live scene right now and if this is single effort no.2, then the potential to of these 20/21 year old lads are worth watching.

You can next catch Hitlist live doing what they do best supporting Capollos at The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen on May 25th or in Glasgow opening for The Kaves on June 8th at SWG3 Poetry Club.

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Anne Kelly

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