SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: HOTLINE TNT – RASPBERRY MOON

HOTLINE TNT
RASPBERRY MOON
THIRD MAN RECORDS

Will Anderson has been a part of several bands over the years; however, he is most well known for fronting Hotline TNT. Over the past few years, Hotline TNT has been making a big splash in the shoegaze and power pop realms, especially with their critically acclaimed 2023 album Cartwheel. Their newest album, Raspberry Moon, marks some exciting changes for the band. It is the first Hotline TNT record as a full band. Previously, Anderson wrote and recorded all the music. Joining Anderson on Raspberry Moon are guitarist Lucky Hunter, bassist Haylen Trammel, and drummer Mike Ralston. This new structure works great as Raspberry Moon is a remarkable record with tons of gems.

The sound mixing and production of “Break Right” is immaculate. It has a nice driving rhythm, a rich, compelling atmosphere, and a superb guitar riff that will instantly get stuck in your head. Additionally, Anderson’s plaintive vocals and moments like the little piano chimes really make the song shine. Hotline TNT unleashes an exciting, headbanging stomper with “The Scene”, courtesy of its raw, explosive ‘90s energy, thunderously exhilarating and gnarly hard-rocking guitar riffs, thrillingly electric drumming, moody atmosphere, and dreamy vocals. It almost sounds like a lost gem from The Smashing Pumpkins. On the other hand, the gentle acoustic sound of “Lawnmower” demonstrates that Hotline TNT is just as good at creating warmly soft and beautifully mellow tunes.

Raspberry Moon is full of cathartic moments. “Julia’s War” is a delightfully bright combination of shoegaze and power pop, featuring pristine vocals, joyful energy, earworm hooks, and an endearingly anthemic chant that is sure to be a favourite at live shows, where everyone will be singing together in unison. Anderson reflects back on a past relationship that didn’t work out with “Was I Wrong?”. Lyrically, it is full of melancholy and sadness, which is enhanced by its jangly, dissonant wall of sound instrumentation, euphoric moments, authentic emotion, and multiple hauntingly catchy hooks. In the vulnerable “Where U Been?”, the introspective lyrics, Anderson’s soaring voice, and the cold instrumentation leave a lasting impression on the listener. Lastly, “Candle” is one of the most tender and heartfelt moments on the record, especially the line “They don’t hold a candle to you”.

Overall, Hotline TNT continues their hot streak with Raspberry Moon. You will probably not come across a better shoegaze power pop record this year.

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