I'm Talking with My Mouth cover

I'm Talking with My Mouth

Hem · 2002

15 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of wistful melodies and introspective lyrics, wrapped in a cozy, alternative rock soundscape.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Jackson — Opening with evocative storytelling, this track sets the emotional tone for the album while highlighting the band's knack for blending folk and rock elements seamlessly.
  • →
    (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes — This cover reimagines Costello's classic with a gentle, melancholic arrangement that emphasizes Hem's lyrical depth and musicality.
  • →
    Valentine's Day — With its intricate instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, this song captures the essence of longing and attachment that permeates the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases solid songwriting and production but doesn't significantly stand out in its genre.

What we noticed

  • The first two tracks feature a steady mid-tempo rhythm with layered instrumentation, while the third track introduces a more upbeat tempo.
  • The EP concludes with a cover that shifts the mood to a nostalgic tone, contrasting with the earlier tracks.
  • Each song maintains a consistent melodic structure, often returning to a central theme in the choruses.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

  • gentle melodies for introspection
  • short bursts of warmth
  • for reflective moments
  • ideal for cozy evenings

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy tracks
  • prefer lengthy explorative albums

Where this album fits

Career context
When 'I'm Talking with My Mouth' was released in 2002, Hem was building on the success of their debut album, which had introduced their unique sound. This album marked a continuation of their artistic vision, showcasing their growth as songwriters and musicians following their initial breakthrough.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Jackson 3:31
  • 2 Valentine's Day 4:32
  • 3 (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes 2:38
  • 4 Living Without You 2:39
  • 5 A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes 2:36

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata