Cloak ... new HP laptop, UEFI only and always run Solus ... Solus ISO won't cooperate and no install results, just hangs with a blank expression
Many modern computers are UEFI-only. The computer I use for Solus is UEFI-only. I do not think that UEFI-only is the issue, although your UEFI settings might be the issue.
First, I would check the UEFI settings. Make sure that the settings are correct for Solus.
Second, I would check the processor and graphics. It is possible that one or both are so new that the kernel in the ISO does not support the configuration.
Third, I would check to see if Windows has encrypted/protected the hard drive. The way to determine this is different for Windows 10/11 S Mode, Windows 10/11 Home and Windows 10/11 Pro, so it would be helpful for us to know what edition of Windows your computer is running.
If your Live USB does not load, the problem is most likely UEFI settings or a graphics issue. If your Live USB loads but Solus will not install, it could be any of the three.
Also, if the Live USB does not load, you might want to look into the possibility that the Live USB is not properly set up. If you are running Windows at this point, you might try using Rufus rather than Etcher to create the USB and see if that makes a difference.
I assume that your computer is running Windows at this point. Please provide us with this information:
(1) The exact model of the HP computer you are using. That information should be on a tag attached to the computer.
(2) The Windows edition installed on the computer. If you don't already know this, the information can be found in Windows using Settings > System > About.
(3) The processor you are using. The processor can be identified in Windows using Settings > System > About.
(4) The graphics you are using. The graphics card can be identified in Windows using the Control Panel under the heading "Display Adapters".
Thanks.