Screaming and Thumping: the unexpected power of The Hives

The Hives are quite the most unexpectedly successful band I think I've ever heard. The first time you encounter their music, your reaction will probably be "I suppose that's catchy, but the vocals are awful and the music sounds a bit messy". Upon hearing them next, you might think to yourself "Alright, I can see how this might be popular, but I still can't get past the off key screaming". The next occurrence might get you tapping your toes and even get the song stuck in your head and you might even think "well, this is at least bearable, if not enjoyable!" and the fourth time you are sure to find yourself singing along and appreciating every bit, from the sloppy guitar to the perfect tempo kept by the drums, and yes, even the slightly pitchy yelps from the singer. Then you start learning their names and buying all their records, and by the time you purchase a ticket to a show, you're madly in love with their brand of pop/punk/rock (it's just that hard to define!). Once you've seen the show, your love goes from infatuation to pure appreciative friendship, as if you knew them and owe them your allegiance because they did something like save you from drowning in an abyss of mellow tunes. Ridiculous as it may sound, it is nothing but the truth. If you haven't found yourself addicted yet, have a listen, see what happens.