Equal Vision Records – Release Date: 5/10/24
Hot Water Music released their tenth studio album, VOWS, earlier this month and this year also marks the band’s 30th anniversary. To celebrate the occasion, they’ve crafted what is perhaps their most consistent record since 2002’s Caution. All of HWM’s choicest characteristics remain intact, with the addition of some modern influences and superb production, thereby elevating their tried-and-true formula to new heights.
“Searching for Light” addresses the different stages of life and how one’s views can change and evolve over time. It has a patient yet intense chorus, while the words clearly ring out, (“All the lessons turn into questions / Weighed down by the darkness, searching for light / All the lessons turn into questions / Break down, break down left to fertilize”). “Burn Forever” is led by singer/guitarist Chris Cresswell and features a buzzing, rhythmic guitar lead in its intro. The verse has somewhat of a post-punk feel before it transitions to the main hook, where a host of vocalists convey a sense of urgency. “After the Impossible” is one of the most beautiful songs that the band has ever written and contains especially heartfelt lyrics. Singer/guitarist Chuck Ragan is both vulnerable and hopeful, as he expresses a desire to hold out for something truly special, refusing to settle for anything less.
“Remnants” boasts contributions from singer Brendan Yates and drummer Daniel Fang of Turnstile, who named their band after a Hot Water Music song. The track illuminates the expert musicianship of HWM’s rhythm section, and presents a modern rock chorus that sounds like a natural progression for the band. “Bury Us All” is an extremely well-crafted song, with lyrics and music that mesh perfectly together. Its words are strikingly honest and speak of searching for comfort and stability in an uncertain world. VOWS concludes with “Much Love,” a triumphant love letter to the band’s fans. There’s a deep sentiment of gratitude, as they give thanks for the community that the band and their fans have built together over the years, (“So much in life won’t stay the same / But this right here will never change / We’ll raise a glass to you and sing / Much love, much love”).
The efforts of producer Brian McTernan on this record cannot be overstated. He brought together an array of guest musicians and varying influences, and was able to fuse all of these elements to create a unified vision. In short, the album flows incredibly well and sounds brilliant. In many ways, VOWS is peak Hot Water Music. Those who’ve ever enjoyed any of the band’s previous material shouldn’t wait to check this out.
