Hoopla

Weird Nightmare’s Hoopla is a bright, fuzzed-out power-pop album from Alex Edkins, best known as the frontman of Canadian noise-rock band METZ. Compared with METZ’s harsher, more abrasive sound, Hoopla feels looser, sunnier, and more melodic, but it still keeps a layer of grit in the guitars. The songs are packed with jangly riffs, crunchy distortion, energetic drums, and catchy choruses, giving the album the feel of indie rock, garage rock, and classic power pop colliding in a noisy but upbeat burst.

The record has a nostalgic, life-affirming mood, with songs like “Might See You There,” “Forever Elsewhere,” “Pay No Mind,” and “Bright City Lights” leaning into memory, restlessness, affection, and optimism. Even when the guitars are fuzzy and rough around the edges, the songwriting stays direct and hooky, making the album feel warm rather than chaotic. Overall, Hoopla presents Weird Nightmare as a more playful and open-hearted outlet for Edkins, turning loud guitars and simple melodies into a compact, energetic celebration of connection and joy.