ALBUM REVIEW: Humble Braggers Takes You On An Emotional Rollercoaster In ‘LOVE & FEAR’
ALBUM REVIEW: Humble Braggers Takes You On An Emotional Rollercoaster In ‘LOVE & FEAR’
Words By: Jordyn Kieft
Buffalo-bred indie-pop group Humble Braggers is a quick rising four-piece band that is poised to take the scene by storm with their new album Love & Fear. Love & Fear showcases a collection of ten tracks that range from electric pop bangers to piano-driven melodies. Humble Braggers is undoubtedly going to leave its footprint in the music industry and in people’s hearts with Love & Fear.
Humble Braggers comments on the album saying “The songs came about at different points and different times but the focal concept of what the songs are about came out of the idea of contrasts – the ups and downs of how you feel in life. The songs on the album that talk about love talk about love in relationships, in loving yourself, and in appreciating the love of the people in your life. The ones about fear are not only about anxiety, as I’ve written about in the past, but facing and accepting fear.”
Love & Fear begins with the empowering “Anymore,” which showcases an honest look into the struggles one faces in life. The song begins with the quartet’s signature synth-pop sound, pointing out in the lyrics that you really only have one life, and you have the power to spend it any way you want. As the song transitions into the chorus, lead singer Tom Burtless asks the tough question, “Can you take anymore?” As you continue to listen, you will find yourself encouraged to take the powerful and deep lyrics to heart. By the time the song ends, your spirit will be uplifted and you will want to “leave it all.” Following “Anymore,” the album continues with the band’s newest release “So Alive.” With an infusion of retro synth-pop and brash guitar-work, the track is a testament to the feeling of pride and joy that comes across when you’re able to overcome your fears. You will definitely feel so alive after listening to this uplifting track.
The middle of the album shifts into the love side of Love & Fear with “Only.” “Only” is an upbeat love song about how love with the right person can ease your pain and stress. The feel-good track that consists of cute lyrics and body-moving quick synth beats will have you running to give the ‘you’ in your life a big hug. Different from previous tracks in the album, “Only” concludes with a beautifully sensual saxophone solo you’ll want to listen to over and over. “Understand” follows “Only” as a testimonial to the inner desire each of us has to be understood and understand others. We can find ourselves relating to lyrics more and more as the song continues, nodding along to the expressive beat. The track ends by slowing down the tempo, leading into the second half of the album.
The pre-released track “I’ll Keep Running” finds its place after“Understand.” Featuring singer Grace Greenan, the inspiring lyrics along with Greenan’s angelic voice in the background gives the song a euphoric and ethereal feeling. Hearing the band’s motivational lyrics “I’ll keep running/I’m not done yet” is bound to leave you feeling brave and ready to not give up either. The album ends with the two powerhouses “Push & Pull” and “Lifelike & Dying Out.” Connecting back to the love message of the album, “Push & Pull” gives us an uplifting and emotional message about remaining hopeful about a relationship. “Lifelike & Dying Out” gives Phil Collins vibes, providing a peaceful beat and beautiful lyrics. Showcasing each of the members’ strengths and talents, “Push & Pull” and “Lifelike & Dying Out” are perfect way to close out a spectacular album.
Humble Braggers is an unparalleled band whose individual artistic lane will reach global audiences. The four-piece has shared the stage with Metric, Naked and Famous, and Joywave. Delivering lyrical messages that are rooted in experiences that many will be able to relate to and find comfort in, Humble Braggers is dancing through the sadness with their music. Humble Braggers is a talented band that is bound to take you on an eclectic sonic journey with their greater-than-life arrangements, infectious energy, and electrifying and euphoric sound.
