German Nu-Metal outfit SCHUTZHUИD, known for their euphoric arrangements and collaborative approach to modern music, showcase the very best of their creative presence and power, with the iconic storytelling and intense musicality of Woodstock ’99.
Self-defined as ‘brutally melodic’, the music is quite precisely the embodiment of this – a nostalgic rock intensity balanced beautifully by euphoric keys, synths, and addictive melodies. The arrangement and performance itself captivates from the outset, the music feeling both classic and contemporary – unpredictable by design, but consistently satisfying.
Meanwhile, the story that inspired the song, Woodstock ’99 of course explores the infamous aggression that massively overshadowed the 30th anniversary of an incomparable festival. It’s not a topic often discussed, particularly not in music, and it gives the explosive energy and intention of the SCHUTZHUИD sound all the more integrity and appeal.
Structurally quite brilliant, this track evolves from moments of lightness and melodic warmth, to the gritty scream and roar of Nu-Metal, all the while changing the tempo and fullness of the soundscape accordingly as we continue to venture deeper into the chaos of this story.
Ultimately an anthemic hit, the live potential for this music is undeniable, but there’s also an ambient escapism quality to the surrounding production, and this helps give SCHUTZHUИD a defiantly recognisable style.
Other worthy singles from the band include the uniquely performative and sharply rhythmic Darkness of My Mind. Here we connect with the songwriter on a more poetic and personal level, an ambient, atmospheric arrangement soon intensified by the faultless layering of distorted guitars and synths.
We’re in a cinematic, provocative realm, one that’s both imaginative and emotive as it proceeds to surround us. The style varies, versatility is a key strength, but still the use of contrast and the sense of purpose and audience-awareness is second to none.
The sound of SCHUTZHUИD is swiftly gaining recognition for its meeting between the soulful and the sheer high-octane, and all the while the skill on display is mighty. Absolutely an act worth indulging in this year.
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