I wish I could brush all
the dirt off my face
leave my doubts in the dust
find a way to ride out these days
Giant Crow, emerging from the remnants of Raindance Kid, is a Hamburg-based rock band that defies genre boundaries. Their music is an eclectic blend of alternative country, indie, post-punk, and neo-psychedelic influences. Today they announce the release of their new single and accompanying music video for the emotionally rousing Hands.
At the helm is Nikolas Kuhl, whose commanding voice and banjo skills deliver lyrics that swing from apocalyptic spirituality to ironic musings. Guitarist Justin Jardine straddles the worlds of Nashville twang and gritty post-rock, while Judith Krischke’s bass lines move from jazzy undercurrents to heavy distortions. Violinist Maline Zickow, with her classical training, further dissolves the traditional genre lines within their music.
Giant Crow channels the rugged essence of Americana, echoing the stark storytelling of Cormac McCarthy and the enduring sounds of Woody Guthrie and The Pogues, with a touch of 90s alt-rock energy and folk-era Frank Tovey. Their sound will resonate with fans of 16 Horsepower and Wovenhand, To Kill a King, Bear’s Den, Lucy Kruger & The Lost Boys, and Nick Cave.
The lyrics to Hands depict a poignant reflection on isolation and the desire for peace amidst life’s turmoil. The observer watches a bird effortlessly poise against the wind, a stark contrast to their own burdened existence. This scene inspires a longing to escape life’s noise and chaos, symbolized by inserting reed blades into the ears to silence the world. Ultimately, it’s a search for solace and a temporary respite from reality’s relentless demands.
The band’s performance video, directed by Leon Daniel, brings a touch of fantasy to the fore, amplifying the raw energy of this talented ensemble. The visual flair enhances the already dynamic presence of the musicians, making for a compelling watch.
Watch the video for “Hands” below:
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