When HANAH’s debut single “Out of Touch” arrived with its clear vision and fully formed ideas just a few short months ago, it spoke volumes about the New York based Denver transplant’s patience while confirming her sound judgement. Despite no doubt having the chops to pursue a music project perhaps years earlier, instead she waited until the stars aligned and she was reunited with former Berklee classmate Luca Buccellati (Tei Shi, Yellerkin) and the results are a dynamic synthesis of both of their talents.
While “Out of Touch” was a strong debut–focusing immensely (and rightfully so) on HANAH’s mostly unadorned vocals until the song’s dramatic climax–“Hideaway” goes a different route, blending Taxman’s vocals and piano with Buccellati’s deft hand and subtle touch much earlier. Make no mistake, “Hideaway” is still a showcase for Taxman’s vocals as well it should be but it’s a far better introduction to the electronic-soul genre that HANAH seeks to fully inhabit. Taxman and Buccellati show far greater growth and balance as a pair while Taxman’s own songwriting is more articulately displayed. “Hideaway” solidifies the potential of “Out of Touch” while also offering an excitingly different take on just what HANAH can do. The common thread is still there but ultimately it shows HANAH will be no stranger to innovation – a fact that will no doubt bode well for HANAH’s future output.
