The hype sisters who make the band Haim got in 2013 was not seen in a long time. Fortunately, they did not failed anyone expectations with the release of their debut Days Are Gone. It was the pinnacle of indie music in 2013.
The story about the Haim developed at the beginning of 2012 when girls posted EP Forever on their pages. Shortly afterwards, praises started popping from everywhere, and the record labels started fighting for sisters. Polydor was thesuccessful one, offering the girls a contract. During the summer, Forever was re-released, and the hype did not slow down because NME proclaimed the album titled single a #4 of 2012, while BBC pool awarded them with the Hope Of The Year (Sound of 2013). Every door was open after such initial ka-boom.
The start of the autumn was chosen as ideal period for debut release, albeit that is the time when everyone drops their music projects. But the machinery surrounding Haim was strong enough to promote the album. Nonetheless, the quality of the record made endless PR unnecessery. Good word spread around.
What Haim offered was an alternative pop sound based on folk, but ornamented with many modern sounds. Melodies are simple and approachable, with every detail spuring the intrigue. Synths and modern r’n’b are the colours splashed on canvas, so when we listen to Days Are Gone, we can be sure that 2010s are the new 80s.
Sonically, the album resembled Tegan & Sara having a child with the XX. Other influences include Blondie and Florence and The Machine, meaning, the diversity helped sisters create something brand new.
The first three songs are the best of the album. Falling, Forever and The Wire validate the hype, since those singles refreshed classic pop sound. Falling is dark and playful with subtle guitar sections, while The Wire is Fleetwood Mac for 21st century.
The rest of Forever is a little behing, but that comes as no surprise since these three songs are really good. They slap you with similar themes until the end, but it is not as effective. Still, If I Could Change Your Mind and My Song 5 stand out and make a good overall impression.
It is so good to enjoy young bands who have something to say (and play). I am still a member of a club of people who are highly anticipating Haim’s follow-up. My only pray is that they will not commercialize themselves to the point that would make them boring.
