Photo by Erick Zerecero
Following their first US tour in over a decade, Lebanon Hanover returns with a soul-stirring double A-side single release, marking their first new material since the captivating 2020 album, Sci-Fi Sky. Now, the enigmatic duo of William Maybelline and Larissa Iceglass beckons listeners into unventured sonic domains, intricately weaving folk-driven acoustic dream pop with the vulnerable essence of post-punk in a contemplative exploration of life’s ephemeral yet profound nature.
Embarking on a Cure-like sonic voyage reminiscent of The Head on the Door’ and the Kiss Me Era, side one of the new release, “Better Than Going Under” manifests as a romantic, sombre daydream. William Maybelline’s brooding baritone intertwines with sighing backing vocals, narrating an ode to life’s fleeting yet boundless vistas. The acoustic strums initiate a folk-driven narrative which, when coupled with a celestial choir, crafts a contemplative soundscape of cautious optimism. The lyricism, “Life is full of wonder, it’s better than going under,” encapsulates a message of endurance amidst life’s turbulent waves of sorrow. This track tenderly encourages listeners to embrace the small joys within life’s limited vastness, portraying a psychedelic narrative reminiscent of the evocative vibes of Echo and the Bunnymen or The Church. The key change in the chorus amplifies the emotive voyage, making ‘Better Than Going Under’ a compelling narrative that beckons listeners to find joy amidst life’s unpredictable ebb and flow rather than succumbing to the undertow of despair.
The music video for the song is directed by Tamas Mesme, with the story written by Maru. The editing is done by Praew Nicharee. It features Wiliam Maybelline and Vincenzo Wieczerzynski as two comrades who meet at New Castle train station. They give each other a special handshake and then head off to enjoy ice cream. The pair then ventures through the city, with William not hesitating to dance along the way. This perfect day ends with the two running into a smiling Larissa, who, brandishing flowers at a cemetery, presents them to a gravestone. Meanwhile, the boys continue to play with a synth nestled between blades of grass, while Larissa continues to smile, turns, and faces the camera.
Watch the video for “Better Than Going Under” below:
“Better Than Going Under / KYIV” is out via Fabrika Records on November 11th. It will also be available on a limited edition white and gold 12-inch vinyl, as well as the standard black.
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