Swedish group The Hives balances success between mainstream and alternative, which is surprising when you listen to their uncompromising and distorted sixties punk on albums like Veni, Vidi, Vicious (2000) and Tyrannosaurus Hives (2004). Perhaps it is the 'good looks', their cartoonish and humorous presentation, or the energetic Mick Jagger steps of singer Howlin' Pelle Almqvist that make The Hives
… appeal to a larger audience? The group worked audibly hard on the fourth album and they started looking for new musical paths. For example, several producers were attracted (including Timbaland) and more than one studio was worn out. In short, more thought was given to this album and that comes at the expense of the unbridled bluff that previous work radiated. It is often done 'funny', with trips to (funny) woody funk and even lounge music. Fortunately, there is occasionally heavy rocking in between, but the group seems to want to emphasize its cartoonish side. (MR)more
