Track of the Week: HEN “Devil’s Sound” (2021)

HEN

“Devil’s Sound” is the latest synth-led slice of dark pop from Brooklyn’s HEN. HEN, who’s real name is Henry Kaye, is a rising Queer star, producer and singer-songwriter. 

Last year saw him release his debut EP Velvet Rage and the stand alone single “Roll Back”; and now he’s teamed up with experienced producer Yoad Nevo (Sia, Pet Shop Boys, and Goldfrapp) for his latest. 

With a minute-long, futuristic, choral intro, some thumping electronic bass and some disco-esque guitar work, “Devil’s Sound” makes for a bold and often unpredictable listen. HEN plays with a whole array of musical references, but the glue that holds the single together is some quality pop writing and a strong vocal performance. It’s the kind of single that draws you in; one minute it’s serving up gospel vibes, the next disco. Expect a strong response when this one gets played live. 

According to HEN, “Devil’s Sound” is “about losing faith and turning to vice”; which explains that genre shift. It also fits neatly into HEN’s aims as an artist, which is to “tap into this simmering, unpredictable queer rage that America has feared and fallen in love with a million times over”. Think Pet Shop Boys… think Donna Summer… but it’s all HEN. Give “Devil’s Sound” a play now: 

“Devil’s Sound” is out now. You can keep up to date with HEN via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Simon Clark

Books Editor. An admirer of songs and reader of books. Simon has a PhD in English and Comparative Literature. All errant apostrophes are his own.