Hand Gestures offer up their swaggering indie-rock gem 'Once It Starts to Kick In'

Brooklyn’s Hand Gestures return with 'Once It Starts to Kick In', a single that captures the quiet thrill of anticipation, the comfort of friendship, and the exhilaration of self-belief. Fronted by songwriter Brian Russ, the track is a warm, urgent slice of indie-rock that feels both personal and universal, drawing us into a moment suspended between longing and release.

From the first strumming guitar and airy keys, the song immediately conveys a sense of expectancy. The vocals are earnest and unforced, threading through shimmering guitar lines and a rhythm section that balances subtle drive with buoyant energy. Drummer Sal Garro and bassist Ryan Belski provide an understated foundation, while Courtney Smotkin’s keys and Bryan Bruchman’s lead guitar add bursts of melodic colour, giving the track a luminous depth that belies its DIY recording roots.

Lyrically, 'Once It Starts to Kick In' is deceptively simple, exploring the universal feeling of waiting for something significant to arrive. The song also celebrates companionship, emphasising the impact of having someone alongside you as you navigate uncertainty. This dual focus on introspection and relational warmth gives the track its emotional resonance, making it relatable across generations.

Recorded, produced, and mixed by Russ in Brooklyn bedrooms and rehearsal spaces, the song embodies the intimacy and authenticity that only a hands-on, homegrown approach can capture. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to craft indie-rock that’s both polished and heartfelt, balancing nostalgic sensibilities with fresh energy.

'Once It Starts to Kick In' is a compelling preview of Hand Gestures’ forthcoming self-titled debut album, arriving on Halloween 2025. For fans of reflective, melody-driven indie-rock that blends warmth with tension, this single is a quiet triumph.