Claude Hay’s catchy third album is fast paced and has more of an edgy feel with funky licks and a genuine rawness, which is a welcome change from the one-man blues and roots artist.
The album begins with a rock barrage in the title track, getting the listener pumped for the next song, as Hay displays his perfectly diverse rock voice for this style of music.
He can do a pub rock yell but he really shows off his talents in the track “Close” where his deeper, darker tones are captivating. In this track, he is able to give a sense of his relationship with his guitar and some beautiful moments are created.
Perhaps there weren’t enough of these moments throughout the entirety of the album.
Due to the fast pace of the record, the tracks seem to race past. Slower blues beats, such as “Hound”, are a welcome change that really give an idea of the varied flair that Hay has.
There is credit due here however, as he attempts to mould a new and interesting sound with the use of his unique guitar talents.
These skills spread to production with Hay having recorded the album from his home studio in the Blue Mountains using a guitar made out of scraps. That’s about as “true blue” as it gets.
I Love Hate You is a solid album bound to leave an audience noticeably impressed but wondering if at times Hay could show more of his extensive repertoire.
