Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

h. eldritch – Amateur Anthropology (2023)

Traipsing along the fringe of indie-folk, electronica and rock with a hint of pop, singer-songwriter and producer Harry Houseago brings a unique sound to our ears. Joined by drummer and percussionist Oscar Reynolds, Houseago has built a reputation for powerhouse shows earning slots at festivals and venues across the UK (Glastonbury, Pub In The Park, Summer In The City and The Bedford). Not only is Houseago earning a loyal following with his confident stage presence, but coverage by various blogs/radio stations across the globe (Music For All, Indie Dock Music Blog, RGM, iHeart Radio The Slow Music Movement). The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘Amateur Anthropology’.

The first release since his genre-bending debut EP Trouble Enough Will Find Us in 2018, produced with Tim Morris and mastered by Dick Beetham, ‘Amateur Anthropology’ is h. eldritch’s re-emergence to the music scene (at least when it comes to releasing music). Produced alongside former bandmate Silas Blackburn with mastering by Josh Clark, ‘Amateur Anthropology’ steps away from the softer, gentler and more soothing tones on Trouble Enough Will Find Us – well, sort of.

Weaving a smooth acoustic folk-pop tone within a bold rock meets electronic beats, ‘Amateur Anthropology’ evokes all sorts of emotions from different angles. The folk-inspired thread reaches into your chest, grips your heart and brings out that vulnerability we all have inside. The electronic beats bring an edginess from behind stomping along in a bold, powerful way. Slather anthemic rock across it all and rattles your brain in a whirlpool of sound.

“’Amateur Anthropology’ is a genre-bending anthem for dysfunctional people in dysfunctional relationships…tiny tales of well-meaning dysfunction and wretched romances set to seismic drums, strident guitars and jittery synths.” – h. eldritch on ‘Amateur Anthropology’

While the melody is overwhelming in its own right, it is the vocal execution that wraps the tune in an anthemic melody. Gruff, rugged and gritty, but with a flair of warmth and richness, h. eldritch explores human fragility in a vulnerable, delicate and elegant way.


For more from h. eldritch, check out his official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator