HIGH HAZELS

There’s a certain romance that exists in the North, a melancholic nostalgia of intense locality, pertaining to local heroes, buildings, events, and even villains. This romance easily translates into the realm of music, and the North can proudly boast a list of famed musicians ranging from Morrissey to Alex Turner, John Cooper Clarke to Ian Curtis. However it is the city of Sheffield that our Tipping Point eye is cast upon today, and it is newcomers High Hazels that find themselves in our limelight.

Presented as a young quartet, High Hazels apparently met whilst all at school and in their coming together the band have produced a sound reminiscent of The Smiths and The Coral. The band’s debut single, ‘Hearts are Breaking’, is composed of a crooner vocal galvanized by melodic riffs, a pervading bass line, and softening percussion, culminating in a brilliant, hazy ballad. Having already received plaudits from the likes of Clash Music, Guardian, and BBC 6Music, High Hazels are certainly a one to watch as 2013 draws to a close.

Words by Ben Blackburn

Tipped by Mary Chang and Emily Brinnand