The HU, the Mongolian folk-metal outfit that took the world by storm with their unique blend of throat singing and heavy riffs, continues to break new ground. Since the release of their sophomore album, “Rumble of Thunder,” in September 2022, The HU has been on a whirlwind journey, achieving prestigious accolades, collaborating with metal icons, and preparing to support a legendary band on tour.
UNESCO Recognition and Cultural Impact
In a historic first, The HU was named a UNESCO Artist for Peace in November 2022. This prestigious designation recognizes artists who use their creativity to promote peace and intercultural dialogue. The HU joins a distinguished list that includes Celine Dion, Herbie Hancock, and Marcus Miller [1].
This recognition reflects the powerful cultural impact The HU has made. Their music, steeped in Mongolian tradition, has introduced a global audience to the beauty and intensity of throat singing (also known as Khoomei) and Mongolian instrumentation like the morin khuur (horsehead fiddle). The HU’s success demonstrates the universality of music, transcending language barriers and geographical boundaries.
Collaborations and Reimagining Classics
The HU hasn’t shied away from collaborations, further expanding their sonic palette. Their 2022 single “Black Thunder” received a makeover with guest vocals from Serj Tankian of System of a Down and DL of Bad Wolves, adding a new layer of depth to the song’s already potent energy [2]. They also joined forces with Alice in Chains’ William DuVall for a reimagined version of their hit “This Is Mongol,” showcasing their versatility and ability to seamlessly integrate with established metal artists.
The HU hasn’t limited their collaborations to fellow metalheads. Their cover of Metallica’s “Sad But True” infused the thrash classic with a distinct Mongolian flavor, demonstrating their respect for metal’s legacy while putting their own unique stamp on it [3].
Live Domination and Upcoming Adventures
The HU’s live shows are legendary for their electrifying energy. Their 2022 North American tour alongside Asking Alexandria was met with critical acclaim, and they continued to wow audiences at prestigious festivals like Glastonbury in 2023 [4].
The band’s upcoming fall will see them embark on a massive North American tour as direct support for none other than Iron Maiden, the undisputed kings of heavy metal. This is a dream come true for The HU, who have cited Iron Maiden as a major influence. Sharing the stage with such metal royalty will undoubtedly expose The HU to a wider audience and further solidify their place in the metal pantheon [5].
Beyond the Music: A Live Album and More
The HU isn’t just about touring. They recently announced the release of a live album, allowing fans to relive the electrifying energy of their concerts. Additionally, they’ve launched a Patreon page, offering exclusive content and fostering a closer connection with their dedicated fanbase [6].
The HU’s Future: A Force to be Reckoned With
The HU’s trajectory is undeniably impressive. From UNESCO recognition to high-profile collaborations and major tours, they have achieved remarkable success in a short time. Their music continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of metal while staying true to their Mongolian roots.
With their upcoming live album, Patreon presence, and the highly anticipated Iron Maiden tour, The HU shows no signs of slowing down. They are a band on a mission to bridge cultures and redefine the sound of heavy metal. One can only wait with anticipation to see what innovative heights The HU will reach next.
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