The debut album of The Hardkiss laid the foundation for their remarkable journey, setting a standard for excellence that reverberated throughout the Ukrainian music scene.

The impact of “Stones and Kisses” was immediate and profound. Audiences were enraptured by the band’s impeccable pronunciation and the unparalleled quality of their music, which stood toe-to-toe with international acts.

By the release of their debut album, The Hardkiss had already released a set of immensely successful singles, with tracks like “Makeup” emerging as definitive mega-hits, showcasing the band’s signature style and their adept fusion of Western influences with Ukrainian traditions.

Divided into two parts, the album offered a dynamic exploration of The Hardkiss’s musical prowess. “Stones” boasted singles and energetic anthems, while “Kisses” delved into the band’s more introspective and lyrical depths.

From electrifying bangers to stripped-down piano ballads, the album showcased a diverse array of musical decisions. While The Hardkiss consciously chose to primarily employ English lyrics, they sprinkled subtle nods to their Ukrainian roots throughout the release, ensuring a connection with their local audience.

Despite its departure from typical pop conventions, The Hardkiss garnered widespread acclaim from both media outlets and fans, swiftly solidifying their position as cultural icons. A decade later, their debut release remains a significant milestone, a testament to the aspirations and dreams of a burgeoning generation of Ukrainian musicians, and a reminder of the endless possibilities that lie ahead.

More than just a collection of songs, this album served as a manifesto for aspiring artists, proving that uncompromising creativity and dedication to craft could yield extraordinary results. The success of The Hardkiss inspired a new wave of Ukrainian musicians, igniting a creative renaissance within the country’s music scene.

Stream “Stones and Kisses” on Spotify.