The keen reader might remember The House Flies from a feature we published just over a year ago, praising ‘Sweet Foxhound’ as “taking a gloomier, more reflective direction”. The Des Moines-based dark rock outfit has recently kickstarted a new artistic chapter, unveiling a string of singles in anticipation of their forthcoming album ‘Lions and Ore’. ‘Lost Literature’ is out today, a follow-up to September’s ‘Derelict Crawl’.
From a sonic standpoint, ‘Lost Literature’ finds a kinetic post-punk production that balances leftfield allure with melodic relatability. Compared to its predecessor, the new single turns down the distortion level, instead embracing a tapestry of dark wave-style synths, including the punchy drum machine groove and the fuzzy bass lines. Alex Riggen, Burnie Eckhardt, Ozzie Woods, and Nick Pompou showcase not only their talented musicianship, but also their overall eclecticism.
Delving deeper into the track’s gloomy yet relatable character, The House Flies explain: “The lyrics move through a rental car, low stereo, highway night, porch light and clover while circling identity, memory and disappearance.” In true House Flies fashion, the song feels rather cryptic and shadowy, but also intoxicating and malleable, a piece where quiet nostalgia meets hidden melancholia. ‘Lost Literature’ will certainly appeal to the alternative crowd, and more.
Recommended! Discover ‘Lost Literature’ now: