Listen: Pølterghøst – Holy Smoke

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Alt-rock duo Pølterghøst claim to hail from Nibelheim, and while we’re aware that’s a fictional region in Wagner’s Ring Cycle, and also home to the protagonist from Final Fantasy VII; there’s something to be said of their astute awareness of Germanic opera. Although it’s more likely the product of several stoned all-nighters, spent accruing an intricate knowledge of video game narratives.

Formed by Fanzine members, Jock and Kit, Pølterghøst aired their debut track, ‘Holy Smoke’, this week. A chugging slab of Dog Man Star indebted rock, packed with sudden breaks and crunching spit’n’sweat-flecked guitar riffs. Even Jock’s louche drawl packs a punch reminiscent of Brett Anderson in his amoral, debauched pomp.

Cresting atop a squalling, sleazy solo before draining away with Jock’s final wiry declarations; ‘Holy Smoke’ heralds an edgy, glammy, utterly thrilling turn of pace from the Londoners.