There’s something about a voice that carries the weight of the past and the urgency of the present—Hans Halstead has that voice. Hailing from the Minneapolis, MN, Halstead is a historian of the soul, unraveling human complexities through melody and verse. His recent album, “Everything Was Better When It Was Worse,” released on January 3rd, 2025, is an evocative collection that wades through politics, identity, and the bittersweet irony of nostalgia. Inspired by the poetic grit of Bob Dylan, Halstead does not simply wear his influences; he reshapes them into powerful narratives. With a stellar ensemble—Noah Levy, Jason Orris, Scottie Miller, Jillian Rae, and Walter Chancellor Jr.—he creates an album where each track serves as a chapter, carrying a truth that is sometimes harsh, sometimes tender, but always profound. Stick with me for a deep dive inti this album.
Kicking off the album with a somber yet powerful tone, “Six Feet Under” addresses the stirring impact of the Parkland Shooting and broader societal apathy toward violence. The track’s rawness is evident not only in Halstead’s impassioned delivery but in the instrumentation as well. The guitar riff creates an eerie atmosphere, while the percussion strikes with a purposeful urgency. Halstead’s vocals are drenched in grief and frustration, capturing the deep emotional core of the song. The production is perfectly crafted, allowing each note to stay put, just like the weight of the message.
A shift toward a more introspective tone, “Dancing at the Edge of the World” brings forth Halstead’s poetic musings on human resilience. The groove is infectious, and the piano’s swing, alongside Jillian Rae’s backing vocals, elevate the track into a space where joy and defiance intertwine. The chorus bursts with energy, strengthening the theme of perseverance despite facing life’s most difficult moments. Halstead’s vocals here are laced with optimism, a subtle acknowledgment that even in the darkest times, we can still choose to dance.
With “Time and Place,” Halstead takes us into a space of personal reflection. The melody is gentle, and his voice feels more intimate, almost confiding. The instrumentation is subdued, with light strings and a delicate piano that serve as the perfect backdrop for a song about the passage of time and the weight of significant moments. It’s a track that forces you to pause and reflect on your life’s pivotal times and places.
“Say You Won’t, Say You Will” reveals a more tender side of Halstead, with its roots in classic love ballads but with a modern twist. The instrumentation is lush—sweeping strings, soft percussion, and a smooth bassline give the song an ethereal quality. Halstead’s voice soars, hitting delicate and powerful notes. The lyrical vulnerability on display in this song tugs at the heartstrings of anyone who has ever hoped for reciprocated love.
An upbeat, rhythm-driven track that carries more bite than the previous songs, “False 9” delves into the absurdities of modern society; consumerism, superficiality, and misplaced values. The rhythm section here is sharp, with a punchy bassline and tight drums that mirror the urgency of the message. Halstead’s vocals take on an almost sarcastic tone, cutting through the music with a deliberate sharpness, all while the guitars churn in the background with a driving force. It’s a track that challenges and energizes you.
The folk influence here is unmistakable. The album’s sixth track, “Sunsets in Duluth” is a gentle yet nostalgic ballad that evokes the simplicity of small-town life and the bittersweet feeling of nostalgia. The acoustic guitar leads the way, supported by light percussion and haunting strings. Halstead’s vocals here are at their most tender, with a soft warmth that perfectly complements the reflective mood of the song.
A standout on the album, “Sister’s Place” is an anthem of resilience and solidarity, and the vocals here are absolutely stunning. Halstead’s delivery is full of strength and emotion, matched by the brilliant arrangements of the instrumentalists. The rhythm guitar pulses along with the drums, and the chorus builds into a powerful cry of unity. It’s a rallying cry for those who fight for their place in the world, and it’s impossible not to feel inspired by the message.
Moving on to one of the most pointed tracks on the album, “The American Dream” draws from Halstead’s social consciousness. It critiques the idealized version of the American Dream, highlighting its flaws and the broken promises that come with it. The track’s production mirrors the grittiness of the lyrics, with guitars and a driving rhythm section. Halstead’s vocals here are tinged with frustration, but also a quiet defiance—a longing for something better.
Also, “Is It Wrong?” brings a somber introspection into the album’s later half. With its sparse instrumentation—gentle piano and a subtle bassline—the song feels stripped down, as if Halstead is pleading for answers. His vocals, raw and questioning, echo the confusion and moral dilemmas of the lyrics. The emotional honesty on display here is powerful. I loved everything about this song. The instrumentation feels solid, giving the track’s lyrics space to make its intentions clear, coming from a space of vulnerable strength. Kudos to Halstead!
A melancholic farewell, “Storm of Goodbyes” brings forth Halstead’s reflections on the end of a chapter. The track features a haunting string arrangement that mirrors the emotional weight of the lyrics, while Halstead’s voice is full of longing and finality. The song builds toward a poignant climax, making it one of the most emotionally intense pieces of the album.
With “Day of Love,” Halstead ends the album on a hopeful note. The song’s production is expansive, with layers of instruments working in harmony to create a sense of unity. Halstead’s voice is full of optimism, and the track feels like a call to action—an invitation to love and embrace the world with open arms. It’s the perfect conclusion to an album that has wrestled with difficult topics, yet ends on a note of hope and love.
The closing track, “One Good Reason,” offers a quiet, reflective conclusion. The instrumentation here is minimalist, with delicate piano and a soft acoustic guitar carrying the weight of the song. Halstead’s voice is tender, almost fragile, as he searches for the one good reason to keep moving forward. It’s a beautiful and heartfelt end to an album that has explored some of life’s most pressing questions.
Overall, Hans Halstead’s “Everything Was Better, When It Was Worse” is a journey through the complexities of the human experience. With a sound that blends folk, rock, and contemporary storytelling, Halstead proves that he’s not just a musician, but a masterful artist capable of evoking deep emotions through his words and sounds. From the stirring social commentary to the intimate reflections on love and loss, every track is a testament to his unique vision. This album is an essential listen for you if you seek music that challenges, inspires, and makes you feel deeply.
Listen to “Everything Was Better When It Was Worse” album on Spotify
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