“Lions and Ore” by The House Flies

Some albums feel like a journey through shadowy landscapes, where melody meets tension and every passing moment reveals another layer of emotion. “Lions and Ore,” the second full-length album from Moline, Illinois-based band The House Flies, creates precisely this kind of experience. Released on November 6, 2026, the seven-track collection explores the meeting point between post-punk, goth rock and darker alternative music, blending restrained passages, driving rhythms and heavier guitar arrangements into a distinctive musical atmosphere. The album features the band’s current four-piece lineup: Alex Riggen on vocals and guitar, Burnie Eckhardt on guitar, Ozzie Woods on bass and Nick Pompou on drums. It is their first full-length release with Eckhardt as part of the group, adding another dimension to their guitar-driven arrangements. Recorded in Riggen’s basement, the project maintains an intimate creative foundation while exploring a broader and more expansive sound. The mixing by Ross Mixes and mastering by Michael Briggs give the finished production clarity and weight.

The opening track, “Goodnight, Goodnight, Lover Dear,” establishes the album’s character through a fascinating blend of spiritual undertones and familiar imagery. Beginning with a restrained atmosphere before gradually introducing fuller guitar passages, it creates an effective introduction to the band’s dynamic approach. The transition between quiet reflection and musical intensity sets the tone for the journey ahead. Among the standout moments, “Lost Literature” offers a more melodic and immediately engaging experience. Its flowing post-punk rhythm and reflective atmosphere reveal the band’s ability to create memorable compositions without losing their darker identity. In contrast, “Derelict Crawl” takes a heavier direction, driven by persistent rhythms and forceful guitar work. Its brooding energy gives the album one of its most intense moments, demonstrating the band’s command of repetition and atmosphere.

The closing track, “The Glass, The Orchard,” provides a particularly memorable conclusion. It begins with a delicate, reflective arrangement before gradually building into a dramatic finale. This shift in intensity brings the album’s contrasting musical elements together, leaving the listener with a strong sense of emotional resolution. What makes “Lions and Ore” engaging is its ability to balance dark musical textures with melodic instincts and carefully developed arrangements. The House Flies do not depend on constant intensity; instead, they allow their songs room to breathe, creating an experience that feels deliberate and cohesive. The expanded lineup also brings a fresh dimension to the band’s sound, with the guitar work playing an important role in shaping the album’s atmosphere. “Lions and Ore” is a confident second album that highlights The House Flies’ evolving chemistry and creative direction. Its blend of post-punk energy, atmospheric depth and expressive songwriting makes it a rewarding listen and a strong addition to the band’s growing catalogue.