Fresh off of newfound success thanks to “The Night We Met,” Lord Huron returns in strong, capable fashion on “Ancient Names, Pt. 1,” a promo single for their forthcoming album.

Indie-rock collective Lord Huron experienced a come-up in 2017, thanks to their song, “The Night We Met.” The song didn’t come out in 2017, but rather two years earlier in 2015, appearing on their sophomore album, Strange Trails.  So, why did “The Night We Met” take off? It was featured in the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. Frontman Ben Schneider and company can use this success as ‘fuel for the fire’ of their forthcoming album, led by intriguing single “Ancient Names, Pt. I.”

“Ancient Names (Part I)” commences relatively slowly and enigmatically, painting a portrait from ancient days.  After the relaxed pace of the intro, the groove, tempo, and vocals kick in.  Honestly, it seems as if ‘just like that’ that “Ancient Names (Parts I)” goes from ‘0-60.’ The sound palette is a selling point, with the standard guitar, bass, and drums, as well as keyboards and a variety of sound effects.  For as mysterious and ‘alternative’ as Lord Huron are on “Ancient Names (Part I),” they deliver an incredibly catchy, effective, and simplistic chorus:

“I gotta get away from here / I gotta get away from her.”

Following the majority of “Ancient Names (Part I),” which ends up being rollicking and up-tempo, things mellow out and the pace slackens.  Despite the contrast, “Ancient Names” remains captivating and incredibly creative.

Final Thoughts

2018 has the potential to be the biggest year for Lord Huron, period.  “Ancient Names (Part I)” is definitely a great way to kick off their third studio album. It’s left-of-center, and indie to the nth degree, yet has a great chorus that makes it incredibly appealing.  Furthermore, the production, specifically the groove during the main portion of the record, makes this a killer record.

Lord Huron • Ancient Names (Part I) – Single • Republic • Release: 1.26.18 

Photo Credit: Republic