Tenderhooks Deliver Their Captivating Album, “Mr Laughing”
By: Chris Buxton IG: @chrisbuxtonllg
When it comes to music discovery, I am always search for bands that push the boundaries and bring you into their world. In a time where most modern music feels formulaic, I yearn for the bands that are making music that I consider healing. There is nothing like listening to a song or album that you connect with. For me, listening to music that gives me goosebumps is a high that I chase every time I play a new artist. Although the industry is saturated with artists and music emerging daily, I still find a way to come across hidden gems that are moving music forward. This week, I came across Tenderhooks.
Tenderhooks are a 4-piece rock band from Brighton, UK, and they are known for their raw & daring sound. The bands is made up of Markus Leinweber (songwriter, pianist, singer), Mike Phillips (bass), Charl Cronje (rhythm, lead guitar, vocals, songwriter, producer), & Murdo (drums). After initially catching my attention with their album “5.4 Light Years”, I knew the band was timeless. They have an edge and vibe that can’t be replicated. In a time where a lot of music feels plastic or recycled, they continue to innovate. Now, they debut on our pages with the release of their 10th album, “Mr Laughing”.
“Mr Laughing” is a 10-track masterpiece that is dynamic and carried by various musical influences. Personally, I loved how they were able to incorporate elements of rock, pop, and hip-hop into one unique sound. Although their music is eclectic, the album ranges from hip-hop/rap with “Where Are My Fans” to powerful rock/pop with “Mr laughing”. Sonically, I found the songs to be dynamic, and the captivating vocal ability of Leinweber was a chef’s kiss. As someone who grew up with a drummer in the family, I loved his contribution on songs such as “Corona Virus Blues” and “Mr Laughing”. For me, I have yet to hear a band use elements from different genres into one core sound, but Tenderhooks did. They can’t be put into a box, and they paint outside the lines. Each member plays a part on the album, and Charl Cronje showed his versatility as an artist, producer, and songwriter. This is what Leinweber had to say about the album:
“A Tenderhooks album is a coming together of finished songs that are deemed good enough to be recorded and added to the potentials list. My song writing has a very eclectic nongenre based methology. Stardust falls over me. For instance, I wanted to write a song to show my appreciation of Elton John and Bernie Taupin's great back catalogue. I wrote the lyrics and piano accompaniment simultaneously for Palace Pier. Most probably my favorite track on the album. Tenderhooks are planning to record album 11 at Peter Gabriel's Real-World Study later in 2025. We recordeed the 9th Tenderhooks album at The Rockfield Studios in Monmouthshire during covid. A fantastic album and great experience.”
My favorite songs on the album were “Brand New Day” & “Big Brother”. Overall, this has been one of my favorite albums of 2024. So, stream it below and rock out!
