HAIM- Days Are Gone
8.5/10 it's insanely good for a debut.
We open with one of the most addictive songs on the album .. "
Falling". The hook here effortlessly ties in with the punchy guitar strings in the background creating this wave of translucence that makes you want to play this back a few times. It's impressive on the first listen for sure. Next is "
Forever" , a track in the same vein as "Falling" but offers more of a rock-pop feel. Their breathy vocals really shine here and one cold even make the comparison to Michael Jackson in how they are executed. The backing harmonies and snare drums are magical , another track that you'll want to play again. Next up is the vocally driven girl power track "
The Wire". It has less energy than the previous tracks but it still does what it needs to. Next is "
If I Could Change Your Mind" a song where the chorus is the most standout thing about it. It definitely plays to the same ear has the precious tracks. Next is arguably one of the weaker tracks on the album -- "
Honey and I". This track takes more of a mellow turn, things slow down here and almost dances on the line of filler but it , like their sound , offers a breath of fresh air. It's different but not as interesting. Next is "
Don't Save Me" a song that sounds like it should be smack dab in the middle of Falling and Forever. If that one two punch didn't knock you out , this will will do the trick. They seamlessly manage to tie in a handful of instruments in the background which is refreshing. Everything is precisely placed and you can hear it. Our lead singer Danielle lets it all out here proclaiming if you can't save her -- don't even bother. Next up is title track "
Days Are Gone" here is where things get impressive. The Michael influences here are stronger than ever and it's amazing. This is probably one of the strongest tracks on the album. The hook here will have you singing this song for days. After that we have "
My Song 5" which is hands down the most experimental. It's good but may turn people of due to it being vastly different from the first three tracks. It even sounds like it should be on a different album nevertheless they vocally carry the song with ease and the distorted instruments give it a decent layer of difference. After that we have "
Go Slow", chances are if you didn't like Honey and I you probably wont favor this track which is a shame because Go Slow does something Honey and I couldn't-- it emotionally delivers. From the very first line to it's last this ballad will have you entranced and wont let you go until its over. "
Let Me Go" and "
Running If You Call My Name" usher us out the album. Both songs offer an admirable vulnerability. The girls who stood their ground in The Wire open up and it's a nice way to end the experience. Sonically they deliver from every corner however they aren't lyrically all the way there yet. At some points it's hard to understand our lead singer but after a few listens you'll get the gist of things. The lyrical content touches on what we've heard before which is understandable given this is their first album. All in all it's impressive for a debut album. I'm looking forward to their sophomore effort.