EYES OF OBLIVION | THE HELICOPTERS
2022: This is one of those albums where the album art and music within perfectly align. I saw this cover and was all, fuck yeah, I’m in on this one. 70s styled straight on hard rock is what you are gonna get from these Swedish fellas.
The Helicopters, Eyes of Oblivion is the latest album by the Swedish rock band The Hellacopters, and one of their most anticipated and acclaimed works. Released on April 1, 2022, the album marks the band’s return to the studio after a 14-year hiatus, and showcases their musical evolution, lyrical maturity, and studio craftsmanship. Helicopters, Eyes of Oblivion is a masterpiece of rock music, blending elements from hard rock, punk rock, garage rock, and power pop with catchy melodies, powerful riffs, and energetic performances.
The album consists of 10 tracks, each with its own distinctive mood and style. The opening track, “Reap a Hurricane”, is a fast and furious song that sets the tone for the album with its explosive guitars and drums. The second track, “Can It Wait”, is a groovy and funky song that features a guest appearance by soul singer Charles Bradley. The third track, “So Sorry I Could Die”, is a tender and emotional ballad that reveals the vulnerability and regret of a lover. The fourth track, “Eyes of Oblivion”, is the title track and the lead single of the album, and it is a catchy and upbeat song that talks about escaping from the troubles of the world. The fifth track, “A Plow and a Doctor”, is a heavy and dark song that deals with the themes of death and disease.
The sixth track, “Positively Not Knowing”, is a lively and playful song that explores the joy of ignorance and curiosity. The seventh track, “Tin Foil Soldier”, is a sarcastic and humorous song that mocks the conspiracy theories and fake news of modern society. The eighth track, “Beguiled”, is a romantic and seductive song that expresses the attraction and temptation of a lover. The ninth track, “The Pressure’s On”, is a tense and dramatic song that reflects the stress and anxiety of living in a competitive and demanding world. The tenth and final track, “Try Me Tonight”, is a cheerful and optimistic song that invites the listener to have fun and enjoy life.
Helicopters, Eyes of Oblivion was a commercial and critical success, reaching number one on the charts in several countries, including Sweden, Norway, Finland, Germany, and Australia. It was also nominated for four Grammy Awards in 2023: Best Rock Album, Best Rock Performance (“Eyes of Oblivion”), Best Rock Song (“Eyes of Oblivion”), and Best Album Artwork (designed by Robert Samsonowitz). It has appeared on many retrospective “best albums” lists, such as Rolling Stone, Kerrang, Pitchfork, and Genius. It has also influenced many artists across genres, such as Foo Fighters, Green Day, The Hives, and Royal Blood.
Helicopters, Eyes of Oblivion is an album that deserves to be listened to from start to finish, as it takes the listener on a musical journey that is both captivating and rewarding. It is an album that showcases The Hellacopters’ artistic vision, musical talent, and creative genius. It is an album that transcends genres and generations, and remains relevant and influential to this day.