Trick in the Hat - oh I tried

​Trick in the Hat

​oh I tried
self-released; 2017

3.7 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

Trick in the Hat is the electronic new wave inspired project of Ron Hetrick. oh I tried is an eleven song album which falls in lines with groups like Pet Shop Boys to Cut Copy. This is music that was in its heyday in the 80’s. You could find it blasting in clubs where people were doing coke in the bathroom and dancing till six in the morning.

The unique thing about today is nothing is really nostalgic anymore. There's so much music out there you can find some band playing it at a local club or on a playlist through Spotify. Hetrick isn’t reinventing the wheel but he's done his homework and the songs hold up in my opinion. There were a couple of one off songs that didn't work for me as well and thought the synth based club thumpers were the strongest songs.

He opens with “Gone in Seconds” which is a highlight. The 4/4 beat, synth bass and crystal lead synths make for ethereal combination of 80’s allure. I was hooked by the time it got to the juicy hooks.

There is more success to be had with “Fire”, “Sail Around” and “Live It Up” which all ride a similar vibe. I was impressed by the hooks and how easy it was to get into the music. I got a little lost with “All Get Down” which was a little more aggressive and could argue gets into industrial territory. There is also a XTRMNTR type vibe to this song.

“Breathe In Me” is an atmospheric, meditative song which I enjoyed individually but felt like such a leap emotionally. Hetrick goes back to making upbeat, fun dance music for the remainder of the album. The songwriting unsurprisingly is very well done.

I would say this album is a no brainer for club kids who have love 80’s dance music. Truth be told here in Chicago you will find a party playing nothing but 80’s dance songs every weekend. I think I can spin this album the next time I go out and people will be very happy.

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