Hope In Hell is the memorable sophomore full-length from Hot Hail!, the solo project of Seattle-based artist Billy Sigil. Filtering authoritarian anxiety and perseverant introspection within a shimmering ’80s synth-pop sound, Sigil moves from darkwave roots toward anthemic New Wave, merging classic melodies with human defiance.

“Commitment” commences the album with a memorable pulse, emitted by caressing synths and bouncy bass. “You got to laugh to keep from crying,” an escalating vocal presence compels, melding with airy synth illumination and into further vibrancy, in the “plan on growing old” ambitions. The glistening synths and expressive vocals resemble a lovely cross of Pet Shop Boys and The Associates. The ensuing “Flesh” struts a funkier, infectious disposition, bolstered by a haunting vocal delivery in its “we still recall your screams” ghostly perspectives. The multi-vocal hook dazzles with darkly impactful, replay-inducing allure, with shades of Depeche Mode.

The album’s title track is another gem, its “someone turn the lights on” vocal beckoning pairing with moody synths and warming rhythms. It presents a slower, introspective sound than many others on the album, though succeeding with a hypnotic charm nonetheless. “In Time” delights as well, exuding a lovely effervescence in its fuzzy synths and blaring synth whimsy. The lyricism, reflecting on imminent tumult and lingering memories, stirs as well. Hope In Hell is an immersive synth-pop success of an album, full of heart and hooky melodic maneuvers.

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We discovered this release via MusoSoup.

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