Hanemoon- Untitled (Subjangle)
Berlin's Hans Forster is back with his fourth Hanemoon album. This time on Subjangle Records, a great label that continues to release amazing stuff. It's more jangle pop, that we love, but this time around there's an added touch of pedal and steel guitar. It features Seb Thieme (drums and bass on 1, 2 and 7), Pat Carter (pedal steel on 7 and 8) and Desmond Garcia One Man Band (lap Steel and lead guitar on 9). But we can't forget Seaside Stars' companions Andi Schuwirth (acoustic guitar and backing vocals on 2) and Greg Hüttner (also from Man Behind Tree, plays drums 3, 4-6, 8-11). But remember, Hans completes the rest with electric, lap steel, and bass guitars; and vocals. "Remember Any Time Soon" begins the album as a soft, jangly beauty with Han's vocals coming off as a rambling whisper. Next up, "Rain," is another soft song that trickles like a light sprinkle of acoustics along with Schuwirth's wonderful backing "oohs and aahs." Here's the video:
"Scared" is a highlight here with its stripped down guitar and vocals. But in comes the rhythm section along with that nice touch of echoing guitar to really make this one really soar. Track 4, "We Didn't Know," gives off a rockin' sound that Neil Young's Crazy Horse would highly approve of. It brings the tempo up on the album, but still captures the beauty of the finest alt-country around. "Dropped" emerges even further out of the gate with its speedy rhythm section pounding away. This song reminds me of Hanemoon's earlier stuff the most. "Hidden Door" slows things back down a bit. This one gives off an America vibe, with its intricate acoustic guitars and gorgeous, back up harmonies. With "Listening Later On," the pedal steel guitar swarms the melody in this slower, waltzy type song. A melody that will move any listener to tears. Track 8, "Motorcycle Rise Again," is another favorite of mine that I keep going back to. Jangled, alt-country that takes me back to the Ozark Mountain Daredevils. (Yeah, I'm old enough to remember them. I'm glad the promo sheet mentioned them because I couldn't quite put my finger on Hans's new sound.) Another beautiful chorus that you just don't want to end. "I Think Your Thinking" is another high speed guitar frenzy that only Hans can pull off with his witty vocals. Track 10, "Young And Old," slows the tempo back down with another acoustic beauty. Later I'm reminded of Netherland's Daryll-Ann at times, which is a good reference. "In The Rubble" closes out the album right where it started off. A little more jangle than alt-country, but either way, a pretty song nevertheless. There you have it. Hans has pushed himself with the introduction of new musicians and instruments for his fourth album. Be sure to pre-order soon because copies are limited. ERIC EGGLESON
Subjangle. Pretoria, South Africa. Lovers of anything that jangles, we are the official label of the janglepophub blog. Founded by Darrin
(posted 4/17/26)
