Words by Anselm Anderson
The Hu, rising stars of Mongolia, first grabbed my attention a few years ago when I saw a YouTube video of their cover of Metallica's classic 'Sad but True'. I was taken by their style of Mongolian metal, using traditional instruments, and their tales of Mongolian folklore.
Therefore, I was keen to review this release when I saw it come through my Emails. Rumble and Thunder is a Deluxe edition of the hugely successful album, released last year via Better Noise Records. I was eager to listen to the album with additional treats for long-term fans. As you probably know, these records are just a rerun of the original with a few extras.
The album clocks in at over 90 minutes long, which features the original twelve tracks plus a reworking of the hit tracks with special guests in the guise of Alice in Chains, Bad Wolves, Serj Tankian and singer/songwriter LP. In addition, there are four acoustic versions too.
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| Photo Credit: Khishigsuren Baasan |
The popular 'This is Mongol' begins with the traditional guttural throat singing over the Morin Khuur (Horsehead Fiddle). The high-tempo music blends instruments from Mongolia with the Tovshur (Mongolian guitar), Tumur Khuur (jaw harp) and throat singing with contemporary sounds they call "Hunnu Rock". As mentioned earlier, this unique approach to modern metal is part of the appeal to a larger audience.
''Yut Hòvênde' marks a heavier direction for the unit. Strong, percussive beats accompany choral cries about the Mongolian spirit. I can see why 'Rumble and Thunder' was a successful album as The Hu can showcase their versatility as musicians and singers. 'Triangle' and 'Mother Nature' are folk 'odes' to their native land, whilst 'Sell the World' show their Metallica influences with thick, guttural voices over heavy guitars and the fiddle acting like a rhythm guitar. The heavenly harmonies on 'Bii Byenglee' are a treat for music fans of folk or world music. 'Tatar Warrior' is the closest The Hu comes to death metal with distorted, sinister riffs and deep guttural growls.
I know readers are keen to learn about the extras. There are three editions of 'Black Thunder': an extended edition, an acoustic, the English translation with SOAD vocalist Serj Tankian, and Bad Wolves vocalist Daniel Laskiewicz. In contrast, the English Translation of 'This is Mongol' is an adequate translation with recognisable vocals by AIC Vocalist William Duval, which gives this a respectable touch for a European audience. There is an acoustic version of this track, alongside 'Bii Byenglee' and 'Mother Nature'. In relation, the English edition of this features singer/songwriter LP (Laura Pergolizzi), best known for writing for Cher and Rhianna.
Overall, I don't think the extras are necessary, especially the English Translations. I understand avid fans would be interested in acoustic versions of the hits, but I feel it undermines The Hu.
Rating: 3/5
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The Hu are;
Gala: Lead Throat Singer and Morin Khuur
Enkush: Lead Morin Khuur
Throat Singer Jaya: Jaw Harp, Tsuur, Flute,
Throat Singer Temka: Tovshuur
Social Media Links
Black Thunder FT Serj Tankian and Daniel Laskiewicz
Mother Nature FT LP
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