Hate cover

Hate

Hawthorne Heights · 2011

28 min · 9 tracks · alternative rock

A raw exploration of emotional turmoil wrapped in melodic hooks and atmospheric instrumentals.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Hate — This title track encapsulates the EP's core theme of grappling with inner demons through a blend of aggressive instrumentals and haunting melodies.
  • →
    Divided — With its emotionally charged lyrics and driving rhythm, this track exemplifies the band’s signature sound while addressing themes of disconnection and conflict.
  • →
    Wasted in NYC — This song stands out for its vivid storytelling, painting a picture of loneliness amidst the chaos of urban life, complemented by atmospheric instrumentals.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

47 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The EP blends emotional lyrics with layered instrumentals, though it doesn't fully stand out in the genre.

What we noticed

  • The first track features a spoken word intro that sets a somber tone before transitioning into melodic instrumentation.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered guitar harmonies, creating a dense soundscape that supports the emotional lyrics.
  • The EP includes moments of dynamic contrast, with quieter verses leading into explosive choruses, particularly in 'Hate' and 'Divided'.
  • The final track ends abruptly, leaving a sense of unresolved tension that mirrors the themes of anger and loss throughout the EP.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • brief emotional journeys
  • cathartic outbursts of intensity
  • reflective moments of vulnerability
  • urgent pacing with impactful lyrics

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer longer, sprawling albums
  • seek upbeat, lighthearted vibes

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Fan Favorite — Resonated deeply with fans for its themes of anger and loss, despite mixed reviews.
Career context
By the time 'Hate' was released in 2011, Hawthorne Heights had already established themselves in the emo scene with their 2004 debut, 'The Silence in Black and White.' This EP marked a return to their roots after a turbulent period including lineup changes and shifts in musical direction, reflecting their resilience and commitment to authenticity.
Stylistic neighbors
Silverstein· The Used· Senses Fail

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 There Was a Kid: Part I 1:14
  • 2 Is This What You Wanted? 3:23
  • 3 Divided 3:35
  • 4 Hate 2:44
  • 5 Wasted in NYC 3:20
  • 6 Stay Awake / Stay Alive 2:54
  • 7 Oceans 4:26
  • 8 Four White Walls 2:59
  • 9 Passengers 4:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata