Waaghals 18: A Dutch Delight That’ll Knock Your Socks Off (And Maybe Your Shoes Too)
Let’s cut to the chase—Waaghals 18 is one of those albums that sneaks up on you like a mischievous cat in the middle of the night. Released under the label Waaghals (yep, they named it after themselves—bold move!), this Dutch gem has got enough variety to keep your ears entertained for days. It's like a musical smorgasbord but without all the awkward small talk at dinner parties.
First off, let’s talk about Daryll-Ann’s "Swords And Words." Oh man, this track hits different. The vocals? Smooth as butter melting over toast. The lyrics feel like someone took their diary entries and turned them into poetry—raw, honest, and kinda haunting. I found myself humming it while brushing my teeth last week, which says something because most mornings I can barely remember how old I am. There’s just something about the way the melody builds; it starts mellow and then BAM—it punches you right in the feels. Props to Daryll-Ann for crafting a tune that sticks with you longer than regrettable tattoos.
Then there’s Mauro Pawlowski’s “The Boy Who Takes A Bow.” If quirky had a soundtrack, this would be it. Mauro sounds like he wandered straight outta some underground cabaret scene where everyone’s wearing fedoras and sipping absinthe. His voice has this raspy charm to it, like Tom Waits’ cooler European cousin. The whole vibe is theatrical yet oddly relatable, like watching an indie film that leaves you scratching your head but also wanting more. Honestly, if this song were a person, it’d probably wear mismatched socks and quote obscure philosophers at parties. Love it or hate it, you won’t forget it anytime soon.
Now, don’t get me wrong—the other tracks hold their own too. Bellwether’s “Crooked Heart” brings moody vibes perfect for staring wistfully out rainy windows. Sukilove’s “Hang On” feels like a warm hug from an old friend who still owes you twenty bucks. And Gitbox!’s “The Low Rroad”? Well, let’s just say it’s got enough energy to power a windmill—or two.
But here’s the kicker: listening to Waaghals 18 feels less like flipping through songs and more like hanging out with a bunch of creative weirdos at a house party in Rotterdam. Sure, not every moment clicks perfectly, but isn’t that what makes life interesting? By the time the album wraps up, you’re left wondering why more music doesn’t sound this refreshingly unpolished.
So grab yourself a stroopwafel, crank up the volume, and give Waaghals 18 a spin. Just try not to spill coffee on your keyboard when “Swords And Words” comes on—you’ve been warned.
