Hampshire based the Hire Wire Act release their 3rd single, “Weekend Millionaires”, in honour of local charity Tonic Music for Mental Health.
Reviewing the new release is of course important, however the support that Tonic Music provide the South coast is well worth mentioning first. The not for profit organisation raise awareness of mental illnesses and help promote recovery through music.
It is well-documented that a staggering 1 in 4 people across the UK alone experience a recognised mental health problem each year*. Many of us find an outlet in our love of music, going to a concert, playing an instrument or joining a community of like-minded individuals.
Those individuals include Tonic Music for Mental Health patrons Terry Hall from the legendary ska-band the Specials, along with photographer to the stars Kevin Cummins.
In the case of the Hire Wire Act releasing “Weekend Millionaires”, it’s about the opportunity of sticking on a CD and taking some time to embrace the music.
*Statistic supplied by the NHS Information Centre for Health and Social Care
It is of course difficult not to remain positive when all the proceeds are going to such a great charity, but let us focus on the actual single for a moment. The title track “Weekend Millionaires” is a well delivered tune, benefiting from its clean production.
The Hire Wire Act are one of those bands who if the single came on the radio, you would either instantly sing along or could potentially just pass you by. Either way, there’s nothing to “Weekend Millionaires” that would have you diving to turn it off.
The single is however the more cheerful song on the release, for the 3 piece do appear to enjoy songs of despair and reflection. The Manic Street Preachers and the Smiths are mentioned within their own pages, but it’s a nod to Suede that is more apparent during “Lost”.
While this particular track and “Weekend Millionaires” may be slightly more rocky, “Meltdown” sounds as though it’s exactly that. Slow and moody, simplistic but reaching out to be noticed. The last tune has the Hire Wire Act going back to singles of old, whereby you get the bonus of hearing a band stripped back and acoustic.
As far as charity singles go, this isn’t a band trying to jump on any band wagon. Physical copies are available from Heathen Records in Fareham, Pie & Vinyl in Southsea or as a download via the Hire Wire Act’s website.
So rather than taking Mr Teeth Reviews word for it, take a chance and go buy the record. If you don’t like it, then you can always donate the CD to your nearest charity shop.
the Hire Wire Act
