Hell Valley High Brings Groove and Grit with Debut Album “Welcome to Hell Valley”
Straight from The Netherlands, Hell Valley High is hitting the scene hard with their debut album Welcome to Hell Valley, set to release on October 18, 2024, through Argonauta Records. This groove-driven heavy rock outfit has been creating a buzz with their infectious energy and raw, live-recorded sound. Named as a nod to the legendary Kyuss album Welcome to Sky Valley, this title – like the band’s name itself – pays homage to rock culture while channeling the gritty aesthetic of movies like Back to the Future. With vinyl and digital formats available, Hell Valley High is making it clear: they’re here to bring a full-bodied, gritty rock experience.
The album was recorded over two live sessions at Big Dog Recordings near Antwerp, Belgium, and the dedication to capturing Hell Valley High’s live sound was paramount. “We wanted this album to feel as close as possible to our live shows,” the band notes, “and recording live really let us capture that raw energy.” That authenticity pulses through each track, from the first to the last. Welcome to Hell Valley is packed with deep grooves, thunderous drumming, thick riffs, and some truly standout vocal moments from frontman Mark Mulders. With influences like Fu Manchu, Alice in Chains, Truckfighters, and Black Sabbath, Hell Valley High combines classic rock’s gritty power with stoner rock’s depth and aggression, making for a distinctive and undeniably compelling listen.
The album’s tracklist promises a journey through both hard-hitting anthems and groove-laden tunes. The opener, “Clean Slate,” sets the stage with relentless energy, and the heavy riffs continue with “Future Nomads,” a track that’s already made waves earlier this year. “Easy Rider” stands out with a crescendo that builds to an epic climax, while “Blameless” dives into a pounding groove that showcases the band’s rhythmic tightness and Mulders’ gritty, commanding voice. Adding a unique twist, the album also features a cover of “Send Me a Postcard,” originally released by Dutch rock legends Shocking Blue. Hell Valley High’s take injects their own heavy edge while staying true to the song’s roots, adding a classic yet fresh element to this powerhouse debut.
This lineup boasts a wealth of experience, with ex-members from Wildebeast, Filthy Felons, and other hard-hitting acts, and their tight, cohesive sound is testament to years of stage presence. Their upcoming live shows will give fans a chance to feel the intensity firsthand, including performances at the renowned Desertfest in Antwerp and a supporting slot for Fu Manchu in Maastricht. This combination of killer album tracks and powerhouse live shows sets Hell Valley High up for an explosive entry into the wider rock world.
