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
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Hate — This title track encapsulates the EP's core theme of grappling with inner demons through a blend of aggressive instrumentals and haunting melodies.
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Divided — With its emotionally charged lyrics and driving rhythm, this track exemplifies the band’s signature sound while addressing themes of disconnection and conflict.
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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.
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
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
What to play next
Zero
2013
Continues the emotional intensity with a blend of melody and atmosphere.
Skeletons
2010
Sets the stage with similar themes and sound before diving into 'Hate'.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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