Hillsboro - HILLSBORO
Self-Released
Released September 15th, 2023
Hillsboro’s self-titled album is a polished and perfectly produced album. According to the band: “The album embraces the melodrama of 90’s emo and grungy pop, carving out a space for a band that thrives on extremes.” The album’s nod to these genres is evident in the moody lyrics, and emotionally engaged music. It is certainly true that “Sonically the band functions as a tight unit, doing away with traditional guitar heroics in favor of ethereal fiddle melodies.” The band is, indeed, tight. Every tool in their arsenal is utilized skillfully, and memorably. The band describes the “fact that their “DIY approach is an outlier against both indie apathy and sanitized pop-rock.” Hillsboro’s sound is described perfectly: “Hillsboro’s sound is raw - marrying bone-buzzing distortion, haunting violin bowman-ship, an infectious rhythm section and dynamic vocals flowing in and out with the energy of the sum.” This review is apt, and hint at the brilliance that is HILLSBORO.
“Exit Plan” features the genius lyric: “The blackest bird is still a bird / I guess it’s time someone got hurt.” The lyrics linger in the listener’s ears. The guitar effects are excellent - guitars sounding almost like helicopters in the beginning, then settling into a groove that matches the vocals perfectly. The sustained notes show the endurance of the vocalist, and the album which refuses to tread water, instead extending their ability to swim flawlessly. The song is a great fusion of styles - emo, as well as energetic indie. The drum fills are stunning, and keeps the listener engaged. The guitar feels like a beautiful echo, an atmospheric touch that extends throughout the album.
Another example of perfect lyricism on the album, “Coming Down,” are the lyrics: “If I can have it I don't want it/ Need a simple place to hide/ Glowing green skies.” The album does tend to hint toward the unusual and the “green skies” part helps to define Hillsboros sound, and place within the music scene simultaneously.
“Closer” is a peppy song that still deals with the heavy emotional toll of emo. It’s a fusion of the best aspects of the band’s sound. The guitar effects help to make the song stand out. The drums are grounding. The vocals swing between very high notes, and deep mournful tones.
The band is also masterful in its usage of killer bass lines. The guitar, drum and bass contributions are vital to the album. They are beautifully unique, in a way that highlights the album continuously. The urgency and vitality to the album contrasts deep and mournful lyrics, while on the same track (“Closer”), explores the idea of convincing yourself you can achieve the impossible.
“Dissolve,” is a moody song with a music video to match. The film quality is grainy - harkening back to older days of emo music, and their rebellious approach to music. The music video for the track, “Leaving,” features underwater footage. The video is a literal and figurative exploration of music and emotions under the surface. The band never strays from making a statement, even if the statement is subtle.
The album also utilizes repetition and unusual percussion to create a new sound that is entirely memorable. Hillsboro attempts a perfectly balanced album, and emotional ride, and they definitely deliver.
