Faint Halos – Something To Lose (2022)
Initially the solo project of veteran musician Paul Hashemi, Faint Halos was a mission to “reinvent dad-rock…” Hashemi explains that so many musicians “get stuck in their ways trying to recreate the music of their teens; I’m trying to mix new sounds and approaches with an old-school dedication to real songwriting…” – and that is exactly what he is doing. Featured on publications like A&R Factory, Music Arena GH and different playlists, Faint Halos sound has been described as “atmospheric and emotionally charged.” The latest addition to their critically acclaimed repertoire is the EP Something To Lose.
Touching on themes of identity, self-discovery and self-reflection, Something To Lose is a three-track exposition of human vulnerability. The title track uses a personal narrative to tell a tale of lost love, while the more laidback ‘Imposter’ is a melodic reflection of “…the way it feels to not feel like yourself and wonder who that really is.” Finally, the closing ‘The Papers’ is a simplistic realisation of self-acceptance being where you want to be in that moment.
Old-school sounds mixed with contemporary edginess are definitely the case in Something To Lose. The gruffness of Hashemi’s vocals brings an 80s meets 90s rock feel – particularly in the title track. Yet, the same gruffness adds a light-hearted, laidback charm to ‘Imposter’ and ‘The Papers’. Personally, the vocal execution reminded me of Bon Jovi and Guns ‘N Roses, but with modern-day alternative rock tones. Then again, that’s just me.
Weaving his way through fragility, inner confusion and empowering acceptance, Something To Lose has an enchanting charm to its melodic arrangement. Infusing the sounds of guitars, strings, pianos, drums and synths, Faint Halos is a refreshing breath of life in a sometimes-stagnating music scene. Interestingly enough, as much as the EP has profound complexity it is also simplistic in its kaleidoscopic soundscape.
Overall, I really love the latest offering from Faint Halos and I cannot wait for more.
Find out more about Faint Halos on their official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
