Hate Drugs – “Afterimage”

Hate Drugs’ new track “Afterimage” incorporates both accessible to-the-point indie-rock and more innovative, atmospheric synth-laden tendencies. It results in a striking sound, one whose trickling verses find a subtle accompaniment in the ’80s-tinged, lush synth pad. The central hook – “when I close my eyes, I still see you / You’re like an afterimage” – is wonderfully constructed, treading beautifully between contemporary indie-rock and synth-tinged post-punk. Particularly impressive is from 02:40 onward, when a gorgeous array of synths and guitar-work concocts a sound lovably akin to War on Drugs (Adam Granduciel). Atmosphere and hooks are both a full go here, on a track from a Central California five-piece that’s immediately infectious and full of evolving atmospheric charm.