When Hippos Laugh is an up and coming post-alternative band from Denmark. Headed by Morten Aske Rasmussen on vocals, the band can mold into a grunge power act or high energy acoustic at the turn of a hat. Labeled as dark and melancholy, WHL is no doubt, real. Mute Shell is their latest 5 song EP.

The album opens on "Indifferent Need," a heavy rock anthem where Live or Collective Soul comes to mind. Sour guitar riffs and moody vocals make this a nice gloomy tune. "Mute Shell," the title track shows just how they can turn from grunge to acoustic with a respectable ballad. The song that would stand out the most is "The Great Whore." With the title alone, this one lets you know you're in for something, but becomes no issue by means of lyrics, stating how we can sometimes fall to those pesky carnal desires but "God is love." "Superherotendencies," another that stands out, begins like Enrique Iglesias but ends with a strange dirty appealing chorus.

This is a nice album for fans of Pearl Jam, Collective Soul, Live, and perhaps Fono. The songs seem repetitive at times and gloomy but, nevertheless, the production is top notch. Before you say alternative is dead, check out When Hippos Laugh, you'll probably change your mind. I can't wait to see the progression this band will surely take in the near future.

- Review date: 1/12/02, written by Blake Garris of Jesusfreakhideout.com