Terrorbird

Multi-instrumentalist, singer, and provocateur, Mikkel Hess has been hard at work on a new album since 2009’s Hess Is More - Hits was selected as one of Time Out Magazine’s Top 10 Albums of the Year. Having done everything from scoring for theater and composing for films, to collaborating with artists on performance pieces, the Danish musician's process resembles something akin to that of a collagist—taking inspiration and integrating references from art, culture and film as well as music. "Creation Keeps The Devil Away" is the first single from the U.S. sophomore release from Danish mad scientist Mikkel Hess AKA Hess is More. "Creation..." is one of those tunes that wriggles its way into your ear and then gets lodged directly into your cranium. It's insanely infectious and cheerful - a blend of pop, indie and dance music that Hess can uniquely call it its own! Title-lyric plays double duty as chorus — a mantra for a generation intoxicated and possibly pacified by all things on a display screen. A simple elixir, the act of creation, taken "once every day", is a way to keep sane. It's a 21st century anthem, mixing notions of self-help pop psychology with a catchy melody — bordering on something one could call an angelic trance. However, "Burn," the second single from Hess is More's forthcoming album is a twisted homage to Talking Heads' "Burning Down the House." Hess maintains the upbeat tempo but creates a track that simulates a rock lullaby that surprises you with his soothing-sounding chorus. David Byrne's nonsensical lyrics are replaced by a matter-fac-story, giving permission to "burn down our house as long as you let me know in time to get my stuff out." Over-the-top empathy for aggression reminds us that Hess is more Zen than Zorro. In a live setting, Hess Is More becomes a powerhouse 7 piece band, with the energy of a bubbling Brooklyn warehouse but with the scope of an orchestra. Mikkel himself reveals a shamanistic approach in the live setting as well, making tangible themes of longing, loss, and healing. The full-length Creation Keeps the Devil Away will hit radio this coming fall.