Hawthorne Heights' 2011 release, Hate, is a sonic explosion that delves into the depths of human emotion. Clocking in at just 28 minutes, this compact yet potent album packs a punch, hurtling through a rollercoaster of feelings with unrelenting intensity. Released on 23 August 2011 via Cardboard Empire, Hate is a masterclass in genre-bending, seamlessly blending elements of emo, screamo, post-hardcore, emo pop, and pop punk to create a unique sound that is both cathartic and captivating.
From the opening notes of 'There Was A Kid (Part 1)' to the closing strains of 'Passengers', Hawthorne Heights takes the listener on a journey of self-discovery and introspection, tackling themes of disillusionment, desperation, and hope. With tracks like 'Is This What You Wanted?' and 'Hate', the band showcases their ability to craft infectious, high-energy hooks, while songs like 'Oceans' and 'Four White Walls' demonstrate a more subdued, melancholic side.
Throughout Hate, Hawthorne Heights' emotive vocals and razor-sharp instrumentation come together to create a sense of urgency and desperation, making for a listening experience that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. With its eclectic mix of styles and unflinching honesty, Hate is an album that will resonate with fans of emocore and beyond, cementing Hawthorne Heights' reputation as one of the most innovative and compelling bands in the genre.
This 2025 Reissue LP is pressed on Red vinyl.
