Following on from 2010’s Would It Kill You? and seven years since the band’s breakout hit and platinum-selling single ‘Here (In Your Arms)’ hit the airwaves, Hellogoodbye present Everything Is Debatable.
This album feels a lot like an 80s throwback – however, at the same time, it does feel right. Push past the iconic drum samples and the gritty 8-bit synths and you have a polished and well-produced record.
Despite what might sound like a drag, frontman and co-producer Forrest Kline has always had a knack for creating contemporary appeal out of sounds that may have been lost from modern tonal palettes.
The record signals an obvious change in musical direction, but the recognisable songwriting talent of Kline remains as he builds upon on ideas found in the previous record. He explores themes in a reflective depth, and, at times, he provides his philosophical take on life by questioning our blindly accepted world view.
Kline has always been a romantic, and this record is no exception to that trend. He takes what would have been cute tales of first encounters and replaces them with a matured voice familiar with the ups and downs of any long-term relationship. ‘Swear You’re In Love’ and ‘Just Don’t Let Go Just Don’t’ exemplify the more serious side of the Californian.
These lyrics float above a musical narrative that has its own highs and lows Each song seamlessly flows into the next, and that’s not an exaggeration either. Brass and string orchestrations are scattered throughout, making the record a pleasing surprise in what could have otherwise left audiences with mixed feelings.
Listen to the title track ‘(Everything Is) Debatable’ here:
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