Twelve Days In June deliver a superb dose of 90s alt-rock nostalgia with ‘Hiraeth’

Twelve Days in June return with ‘Hiraeth’, an album that dives deep into the raw, guitar-driven sounds of the 90s alternative rock scene, channelling the spirit of the era with a modern edge. This 13-track record, produced by Ben Hirschfield (Present, The Story So Far, Against Me!), offers a powerful follow-up to last year’s ‘La Luna’.

With its roots firmly planted in the 90s, ‘Hiraeth’ embodies a rich blend of alt-rock, grunge, and shoegaze, reminiscent of iconic bands like The Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana, and Tool. For frontman Dave Hulegaard, this project serves as a nostalgic love letter to the decade that shaped his musical tastes. Reflecting on the early days of alternative rock, Hulegaard notes how Twelve Days in June began as a way to preserve the sound of a scene that felt like it was slipping away. ‘Hiraeth’ is his way of keeping that era alive.

‘Hiraeth’ truly feels like it has been crafted by someone with a deep passion and profound understanding of the alt-rock soundscape that defined that decade. Every track resonates with an authenticity that reflects not only a love for the genre, but an intimate familiarity with its core elements. In the best way possible, it’s as if the artist has expertly cherrypicked the most iconic features of the genre and seamlessly woven them into a fresh yet nostalgically rich experience.

Gritty, raw guitar riffs and electrifying solos feature, embodying the visceral energy and rebellious spirit that characterised the genre. Other times slow, deep bass breaks create an impactful sense of contrast, offering moments of introspective calm before the music surges forward once again. The anthemic melodies that weave through the album are undeniably powerful, invoking stadium-sized moments that defined the era of alternative rock, while maintaining a raw, unpolished edge that keeps the music grounded and emotionally resonant.

Sonically, the album hits hard with anthemic riffs and swirling soundscapes, blending the melancholic introspection of shoegaze with the raw energy of grunge. Thematically, ‘Hiraeth’ takes listeners through a visceral exploration of grief, isolation, and mortality, delivering a cathartic, almost therapeutic listening experience.

For fans who crave the sound of the 90s, ‘Siamese Dreams’, and rock genre-blending, ‘Hiraeth’ is an unapologetically loud, emotional rollercoaster that manages to fill the void left by the giants of the past. Whether you’re in it for nostalgia or simply looking for a deep, immersive listen, Twelve Days in June delivers an album that demands to be played at full volume.