The Haunt are an alternative rock four-piece who are based in Florida, USA. They’ve just hit my radar thanks to their new EP. Incorporating elements of electronic rock and gritty blues, it’s called Dead on Arrival.
By Graeme Smith
The band first came to prominence in 2018 thanks to their self-titled EP and tours with Palaye Royale, The Hu and The Struts. This was followed by a string of singles before 2021’s EP Social Intercourse. More singles have now led us right up to date with The Haunt’s latest and boldest EP.
The EP opens with Overdose. It’s brooding electronic pop with expressive vocals and emotional lyrics in its first verse. When it arrives at its first chorus, heavy rock elements come in, ramping up with drama and giving the whole arrangement an edge. Right from the off, the EP offers something for pop and rock fans alike.
Shake has a lighter feel to its instrumentals but its lyrics are no less biting, and its chorus is wonderfully bluesy. This Won’t Go Over Well is a driving track that makes great use of loud-quiet. Its urgent tempo and sweeping emo rock chorus make it a mid-EP highlight.
I’m Done introduces industrial elements to proceedings, showing us a dark and atmospheric side to The Haunt’s sound. More takes things back into a gentler direction with a floating indie pop arrangement and an anthemic chorus. OK closes the EP with a heart-rendering and vulnerable moment. A slow-building track, it ends big with a passionate finish.
With this EP, The Haunt are delivering a sound that feels perfectly on trend. Its rock undertones give it an edge while there’s plenty in their sound that make them accessible to all. It’s a collection that oozes charisma and is full of emotional expression. I foresee big things for this band.
The Haunt are siblings Anastasia Grace Haunt on vocals and Maxamillion “Max” Haunt on vocals, guitar and production, with Nat Smallish on bass and Nick Lewert on drums and production. Dead on Arrival was also produced by Grammy nominated Kevin Thrasher. The EP is out now via Nettwerk Music Group and you can check it out below.