Hugs of the Sky’s latest EP: Electric, eclectic and a little bit goth.

Psychedelic Pop Corn is the latest EP from Belgian psychedelic rock outfit, Hugs of the Sky. The group already have some dates lined up in their native homeland, and with more shows on European soil looking likely, it’s time to delve into what the three-piece have been up to.

The EP is a journey through the weird and wonderful for the uninitiated, probing into rich, psychedelic niches while remaining on the right side of mainstream. In the opening title track, Bauhaus-esque vocals are mixed with jangly riffs and simple melodies, reminiscent of early ‘80s alt rock. It makes for an invigorating start to the record, and an ambitious one at that – over six minutes in length.

The EP’s big single, Butter Free, is a sublime concoction of radio-friendly pop-rock and enough alternative swagger to stand out from the crowd. Hugs of the Sky do a remarkable job at sounding like the old punk/gothic rock bands you liked from the genre’s early days, with more polish and catchier licks.

Besides the half-witty name, Radio Killed the Video Star is a right groover, every inch the forgotten gem from Dandy Warhols’ early days, and possibly the highlight of the whole record. Psychedelic Pop Corn closes with Worms, packing a deliciously mean opening, rich with synth and haunting guitar. ‘Worms’ touches that boundary between gothic rock and modern metal, transcending into a track as genre-defying as it is infectious. This night-seven-minute stomper is one of the group’s most elusive offerings to date.

From a band who supported the Sisters of Mercy on part of their 2022 European tour and the producer behind King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard’s eclectically consistent discography, this EP promises high points from both groups. It’s a bit strange, a bit psych and a whole lot of fun.

Psychedelic Pop Corn is out now via Wagonmaniac Music.