Driven by internal and external forces, “Everything Was Better When It Was Worse” speaks on love, society, and other factors that would usually be considered daring to be tackled in the medium of music. But alas, Hans Halstead comes out with this album regardless, and it’s great in all aspects.
Halstead claims that the record mainly took inspiration from Bob Dylan, generating a unique handful of songs worth sticking around to. To say each and every one of them are in-depth is an understatement; they are well-written, with the melodies and production unforgotten. It captures what was going on in his mind during the process, providing realness and genuinity to it all.
“Six Feet Under” seems like the output of a ramble structured together with thought for cohesiveness. It’s about pushing people away, and being in one’s head for most, if not all the time: “Going off the deep end / and they wanna see me stumble / and they wanna see me dead / but I’m telling myself / that it will be okay in the end”.
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Following that would be “Dancing at the Edge of the World”, presenting a perspective wherein he’s well-aware that everything will come to an end eventually, so why not make the most of it. In other words, spending time with loved ones, all while acknowledging that reality and all we came to know will be doomed. It takes a catastrophic, anxiety-inducing thought with the peace that comes with dancing. Listeners will also get a glimpse of Halstead’s impeccable songwriting through the creative way of mentioning climate change.
Throughout the catchy melodies present in each track, the vocals are the same quality and standard. That’s the case with “Time and Place”, a chill but catchy tune about finding love again, presumably after a recent failed encounter or a moment of doubt about ever finding it. Next up is “Say You Won’t, Say You Will”, a song with country and classic love song vibes similar to the previous one, but specifically about wanting to rekindle with a lost love. “False 9” is a play on the soccer jargon of intending to confuse the opposing party. It’s honestly a clever analogy, with lines like “I know I feel the indecision / a false nine that may be the perfect position”.
“Sunset in Duluth” is a lovely, bittersweet song, the situation of a relationship not going according to plan explained through metaphors of pavements and not meeting with her, the relationship wasn’t sealed despite having a connection. “We paved the roads and plowed the pavement / put it all together, forgot the glue”, a line that deems personal yet relatable. Speaking of personal, “Sister’s Place” comes next. A track tackling a specific setting that retains its slightly humorous nature. It speaks about infidelity with the alibi of a fake sister being the highlight.
On the other half of this record, Hans Halstead begins diving deeper into societal conflicts, ranging from historical to recent, from within the country of origin to the international spotlight. “The American Dream” is a list of those issues, arranged lyrically to form a point, and “Is It Wrong?” talks about all of it in detail: from religion, sexuality, sexism, mental health, politics, all in one song. Honestly, it’s kind of amazing how it’s all compiled yet made sure that it’s all given the light to be recognized. “Storm of Goodbyes” acts as a response to these songs, more on the reflection of identity, but part of it is reflecting on the environment as a whole. In fact, these particular lines stand out: “Seasons change / and birds fly / but they don’t realize / what it’s like to fly in the storm of goodbyes”.
It is also worth mentioning that there’s a track called “Day of Love” as well, which is about the 2018 Parkland school shooting in Florida. Halstead took the time to mention all of the victims’ names, age, and what they’ve done or what they ought to be if they were ever to prosper in life.
With “One Good Reason”, the final song of the album, the theme of love comes back around, talking about being reserved when it comes to falling in love, making sure it’s worth it this time, hence looking and asking for a good reason. As the album discusses deeper topics than the last, Halstead’s mind and heart ought to be recognized for the bravery and creativity utilized in one outstanding project.
Don’t miss out on this incredible album by Hans Halstead. It’s a masterpiece that speaks to the heart and mind. Stream it now, and let the music move you!
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About the Author
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A psychology major with a knack for music and writing. Mostly indulges in alternative rock, indie, and pop punk.