Speech Act Theory: New Single + Video 'Holding Out'

MusicReviews

18 Aug

KATIE BROWN - 18 AUG 2021

Out a week ago via Blood & Wires Records, ‘Holding Out’ is the intriguing debut single by alt-electronic Auckland duo Speech Act Theory. Accompanied by a spooky and spell-binding video, it was recorded by producer/musician Pete Hickman alongside drummer Ben Bradford earlier in 2021, and is the first of three slated for release by the end of 2021.

A melding of classic electronic elements and live acoustic drums and instrumentation, the track draws its listeners in like the swing of a pendulum, its cyclical rhythm and structure acting as a kind of hypnosis that cleverly reflects the idea of how uncontrollable falling in love can be, whether with the right or wrong person - perhaps especially the wrong. With a nod to the 90s alternative/trip-hop stylings of the likes of Massive Attack, Zero 7 and Radiohead, it easily encompasses the best of those worlds while introducing its own unique and modern flavour. Hickman’s vocal draws comparison to the eerie chant-like croon of Thom Yorke, and this is the perfect complement to the narrative of the track.

These elements translate neatly into the accompanying music video directed by Auckland’s Dyego Cortinas, in which dancer-pair Sofia Rivero Brandolino and Chancho Sterestein act out the push and pull of this should-I-shouldn’t-I falling in love dynamic: it’s raw, it doesn’t give everything away, and like the single, it compels its viewer almost irresistibly to keep ‘holding out’ in order to see how the story ends - which seems to be right back at the beginning. Welcome to the unpredictability of love and attraction.

Watch the video for ‘Holding Out’ below, and catch Speech Act Theory at Auckland’s Whammy Bar on the 24th of Sept, supported by VÏKAE. Keep an eye out on socials for ticket availability.