Half Hearted Hero – Whatever
Review by Will Howard
New Bedford Massachusetts’ Half Hearted Hero’s new record Whatever sounds like a nonchalant thrown together record by the title, a collection of tracks a little underprepared. In fact Whatever is so far from that, the album is arguably ironically titled. An eight track record, Half Hearted Hero has created a perfect collection of perfection and raw energy as they work to both progress and define their sound.
Beginning with the track “Untitled”, a slow groovy rock tune, Half Hearted Hero starts the record off slow. Casually switching between a groovy full band sound to the more honest, open groove of just a bass drums and vocals. As the track progresses and the rest of the band slowly adds their musical musings to each new verse, line after line, “Untitled” begs listeners for each additional second like a child too cute to say no to. The record, however, does not stop there just two tracks later is the song “Vessel”. Also a slow but groovy track, “Vessel” begins with this captivating trade between vocals and the riffing of the entire band as a unit. Half Hearted Hero rolls through the track with this really bright and focal bass sound. As the song hits its stride and the band’s true power begins to shine, the powerful backing harmonies stride through tall.
The first time I saw Half Hearted Hero I had no clue who they were. They were just another band playing in the middle of a long list of bands, few of which I’d heard of before. However, as I unknowingly stood there waiting for this next unknown band to play I became a party to greatness. A group of five talented, passionate and down to earth individuals Half Hearted Hero blew me away. With their incredible songwriting, passionate and honest performance and the beauty of a simple thank you at the end of their set. The bands new record Whatever is no exception to this power, beauty, and as such it is entirely deserving of your attention.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Recommended Tracks: “Good Terms” and “Vessel”
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