Brooklyn-based alt-rock trio Hello Mary have been making waves in the indie scene with their gritty, yet melodic sound. On September 13th, they released their new album Emita Ox, and we had the pleasure of sitting down with the band before their performance at Manchester Psych Fest earlier this month. In our full feature video interview below, they share insights into their latest record, touring experiences, and how they’ve connected with fans in the UK.
Formed in Brooklyn, Hello Mary has quickly developed a loyal following with their exquisite blend of alternative rock, grunge, and dreamy shoegaze timbre. The band’s lineup consists of guitarist/vocalist Helena Straight, drummer/vocalist Stella Wave and bassist Mikaela Oppenheimer. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2022, has laid the foundation for their career - Their raw and candid songwriting being the biggest draw, in our opinion, for the band. With Emita Ox, they’ve built upon that core, and has in their sound and a deeper exploration of emotional landscapes.
Hello Mary's music is an intoxicating mix of alt-rock grit and dreamy soundscapes. Combining melodic vocals with heavy, distorted guitar riffs they craft songs that feel both nostalgic and contemporary. Fans of '90s grunge and shoegaze bands like Hole, Lush, and My Bloody Valentine will find plenty to love in their music. Yet, Hello Mary’s sound is distinct, defined by a modern edge and their ability to blend soft, reflective moments with intense bursts of energy. Emita Ox takes these dynamics to new heights, delivering a more polished and emotionally raw experience.
Before their set at Manchester Psych Fest on September 3rd, they shared their thoughts on the UK crowd and how it compares to performing in the US. According to the band, they felt a visible difference with the audience in the uk, stating fans live more in the music compared to their American counterparts. Their appreciation for the UK's music scene was clear, and they were thrilled to be part of such a fun festival lineup.
Hello Mary supported American Football during the UK leg of their tour. This marks another exciting milestone for the band, who are eager to bring their new material to a wider audience. Their live performances, which are packed with visceral emotion and intensity, is something that we were personally drawn to.
At this years festival, in a packed out YES basement, the trio took to the stage to perform. Intimate and grungy, their sound complimented the venue and the crowd, as they took us all on a gritty track into their musical world. We were hooked.
Emita Ox
The title Emita Ox is as thought-provoking as the music itself, though the band has kept the meaning behind it personal. They’ve also chosen not to reveal the themes flowing through the album, preferring to let listeners find their own interpretations.
I spent an afternoon with this album, and it left a lasting impact. Cathartic and elusive, the sound is layered with such depth and complexity that it feels intensely personal. Helena’s vocals soar above the weighty, doom-filled bass, while Stella’s crashing drums create a euphoric blend of melancholy and energy.
Standout tracks for me include “Down My Life”, with its unforgettable timbre that lingers long after the song ends, “Courtesy”, featuring haunting riffs and vocals, and “Bubble”, with its whimsical tempo. The entire album flows seamlessly, almost like a work of art. It feels personal, troubled, relentless, and beautifully hazy—inviting listeners to find their own meaning in its depths.
Listen to Emita Ox now, available on all major streaming platforms.
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As always, we will see you at the front
Hello Mary
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