Last Hyena’s Suspect Your Elders: A Bold Evolution in Instrumental Rock

Bristol-based instrumental-rock trio Last Hyena return with their third studio EP, Suspect Your Elders, released on September 26th, 2025. Building on the critical acclaim of their 2021 debut album, How Soon Is Mars?, this new offering marks a powerful and deliberate step forward for the band—showcasing their evolution while remaining rooted in the experimental math-rock and post-rock traditions that first earned them recognition.

Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Mark Roberts (known for work with Delta Sleep, Black Peaks, and Jamie Lenman) at Devon’s Middle Farm Studios, Suspect Your Elders expertly blends intricate math-rock rhythms, expansive post-rock soundscapes, and ambient noise textures. This fusion crafts a detailed and immersive listening experience that explores themes of unpredictability, emotional complexity, and the darker facets of modern digital life.

Last Hyena’s reputation for high-octane performances and meticulous compositions shines throughout this EP. The trio’s hallmark blend of wild, untamed energy and precise musicianship is evident in every track, as they push their sound into heavier, more aggressive territory. Drummer Rory emphasises the band’s commitment to growth: “We believe this EP is a powerful statement and a vital next step for the band, showcasing our evolution while staying true to the experimental spirit of our genre.” Indeed, the band manage to maintain their core identity while embracing new sonic challenges.

Bassist Max highlights the introduction of drop tuning and more assertive vocals as a notable departure from previous releases. This increased intensity is a response to the rising anger and division in today’s world, with the EP’s title, Suspect Your Elders, serving as a thematic anchor. It reflects the pervasive angst and distrust that characterise much of contemporary discourse, lending the music a timely and thought-provoking edge.

The EP’s final single, “Surfer”, released on September 19th, exemplifies the band’s ability to marry complex musicality with meaningful commentary. Featuring explosive riffs and seductive guitar lines, the track metaphorically explores the dark side of internet addiction and social media’s hold on our attention. Guitarist Josh reveals the inspiration behind “Surfer”, recounting how a seemingly innocent Google homepage surfing game pulled him into a trance-like state, mirroring the all-consuming nature of digital distractions.

Since their formation in 2016, Last Hyena have steadily carved a niche with their innovative approach to instrumental rock. Their previous album earned praise from outlets like Punktastic, Noizze, At The Barrier, Visions, and Everything Is Noise, and the band’s live presence secured slots at major festivals including ArcTanGent, Portals, and PWER. With Suspect Your Elders, Last Hyena continues to prove that instrumental music can be as emotionally resonant and culturally relevant as any vocal-driven work.

In conclusion, Suspect Your Elders stands as a confident and compelling addition to Last Hyena’s discography. Its intricate compositions, thematic depth, and heightened intensity make it a must-listen for fans of math-rock and post-rock, as well as anyone interested in music that reflects the complexities of modern life. This EP not only solidifies Last Hyena’s position as innovators within their genre but also pushes the boundaries of what instrumental rock can express.