Review Have A Heart: from fierce punk to fragile folk on a playful and surprisingly balanced debut

The Amsterdam-based indie rock band The Klittens has officially released their debut album, titled Have A Heart. Following the success of two previous EPs, the band explores themes of human empathy and frustration regarding global violence. The lead singer, Yaël Dekker, addresses these concerns throughout the record, blending personal reflections with a distinct DIY punk aesthetic reminiscent of bands like The Slits.

The album showcases a wide range of musical styles, shifting between raw punk energy, psychedelic folk, and quiet piano ballads. Tracks like Taxi highlight the band's experimental approach, featuring repetitive guitar layers and unusual percussion sounds that create a dense, layered atmosphere. Despite these experimental elements, the group maintains a sense of playfulness and balance, incorporating melodic sunshine-filled guitar parts and catchy vocal harmonies. By juxtaposing fast-paced songs with calmer interludes, The Klittens provide a dynamic and engaging listening experience that keeps the audience captivated until the final track of their balanced debut.