The Shoreline Sessions, is the upcoming new full-length album by Hello London, the solo project of Buffalo-based songwriter James Froese. It promises to be a vibrant and introspective journey through emo-infused indie rock - told acoustically. Some of the tracks from Hello London's previous album, 'The Changing Tide' get a re-working here, as well as the introduction of previously unheard material.
Released this Friday, May the 9th, this nine-track record channels the raw emotion and anthemic energy of early 2000s emo giants like Jimmy Eat World and The Starting Line, while carving out its own distinct identity. The songs here are stripped back and acoustic which no doubt allows them to breathe and develop in a new way. Froese, who writes, performs, and records everything himself, delivers a polished yet heartfelt collection that captures the turbulence and hope of navigating life’s shifting phases. From the opening track, “Heavy Heart.” the album sets a tone of gritty determination and layered vocals that soar with emotional weight.
“The Changing Tide”, the last song on the album, is a standout, building from a vigilant, ascending melody to a cathartic chorus that feels like a rallying cry for resilience. Froese’s knack for crafting infectious hooks shines in “A Change of Pace,” an song with introspective lyrics (which get the opportunity to be centre stage in this version) about breaking free from stagnation. “Wait Here Forever,” showcases Froese’s versatility, when it comes to writing and arrangement and this track really was made for the softer approach.
The Shoreline Sessions is deeply personal, exploring themes of self-doubt, longing, and the search for meaning amidst life’s chaos. Lines like “I’m falling down, the world is spinning out of control, and I know / That I believed a lie” (from “A Change of Pace”) resonate with raw honesty, while the imagery of roads, tides, and distant coasts evokes a restless yearning for change. Froese’s vocals carry these sentiments with conviction, blending the earnestness of emo with the polished grit of alt-rock. The album’s production, handled by Froese and mastered by Doug White at Watchmen Studios, is crisp and dynamic, allowing the songs here to shine without overshadowing the emotional core.
Overall, The Shoreline Sessions is a testament to Froese’s songwriting prowess and DIY ethos, offering a compelling blend of nostalgia and fresh perspective. It’s an album that speaks to anyone grappling with life’s uncertainties, delivering comfort in its emotional depth. For fans of emo and alt-rock, this is a record worth diving into—one that pulls you under and leaves you eager for the next wave.
Hello London has opened for acts such as Sincere Engineer, Covey, and Canetis. With influences ranging from Jimmy Eat World to The Early November, he is carving his own name within this musical sphere. This acoustic selection is a sold entry point for listeners eager to discover new music.
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