ALBUM REVIEW: The Hives – The Death Of Randy Fitzsimmons

Fuga

Released: 11.08.23

Eleven years since the release of their last album, the patchy, self-produced Lex Hives, the Swedish garage punks are back with a new album produced by top Swedish pop producer Patrik Berger (Lana Del Rey, Robyn).

Thankfully, long-term fans need not worry about Berger softening the group’s signature sound – this, their sixth album, is a full-blooded return to form. Berger’s skilful production enhances the album’s 12 songs, rather than detracting from their ferocity. As usual with The Hives, the album is front-loaded with its strongest tracks, with a powerful opening salvo of Bogus Operandi, Trapdoor Solution and Countdown To Shutdown setting the tone for a return to the sound of the group’s early triumphs. Easily their best album since 2003’s Tyrannosaurus Hives.