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Hop Along: Punk Energy Meets Indie Heartbreak
14 Aug
Summary
- Hop Along blends punk energy with romantic indie influences.
- Frances Quinlan's songwriting uses poetic deflection.
- Their music creates evolving sonic landscapes, like opening rooms.
The Philadelphia band Hop Along merges punk's raw energy with the romantic, middle-American indie sound reminiscent of Bright Eyes and Rilo Kiley. At the core of their music is singer Frances Quinlan, whose sharp writing explores the poetry of deflection, creating songs that unfold like expansive, surprising rooms.
Quinlan's earlier work included a folk record influenced by Joanna Newsom and Kimya Dawson. After forming Hop Along with her brother Mark and bassist Tyler Long, their sound evolved, filtering her storytelling through an emotionally open style. Their debut, 'Get Disowned,' showcased a messy, powerful dynamic with Quinlan's distinctive, cathartic vocals.
The band's second album, 'Painted Shut,' produced by John Agnello, presents a cleaner yet equally purposeful sound. Agnello's production credits include artists like Dinosaur Jr. and Sonic Youth, hinting at a full-blooded rock foundation with a unique edge. The album's songs often build gradually, revealing deeper layers over time.
Quinlan's lyrical skill is evident in her ability to explore complex themes from a removed perspective. For instance, 'Powerful Man' addresses domestic violence from a bystander's viewpoint, transforming a tragic event into a meditation on guilt and responsibility, highlighting the contrast between an adult's ability to act and a child's helplessness.
