Hillhaven—a new supergroup of talent comprised of vocalist Chris Kelly (Alustrium, formerly Galactic Empire), drummer Maty Madiro (From Ashes To New), guitarist Ricky Armellino (Ice Nine Kills), guitarist Jimmy Bennett (From Ashes To New), and bassist Jaime GoWell—has unleashed a studio performance-style music video for their latest single, “Gaps.”
“This song was quite literally the conception of Hillhaven,” vocalist Chris Kelly shares in a press release. “I had originally written it for another project, but when that didn’t work out, I sent it to Maty [Madiro, drums] and almost immediately, the conversation became one about starting something new. The thought was exciting but terrifying at the same time.”
He continues, “I had never been a frontman. I was VERY new to writing lyrics, and this was going to involve a level of vulnerability that would surely push beyond my comfort zone. Still, though, it was a no-brainer—having the chance to make something fresh with guys at this level. A lot of Hillhaven’s lyrics are deeply cathartic, covering darker subjects as a way of healing. This is one of the hopeful songs.”
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“It’s got a little more of a ‘feel-good’ vibe than the last two songs we’ve put out and I think listeners are gonna dig that,” Kelly concludes. “The usual ‘doom and gloom’ lyricism in rock and metal can be a little numbing at times, so it’s nice to throw some positivity into the mix.”
Opening the track, Kelly’s commanding vocals burst forth against a backdrop of hard-hitting instrumentation accentuated by intricate guitar work. As the song progresses, the roaring drum work surges forward to the forefront, reaching a crescendo that perfectly complements Kelly’s growling delivery. Throughout the track, each musician shines, with moments that showcase their masterful skills taking center stage. Check out the “Gaps” music video, also directed by Chris Kelly, below.
