Push Pull cover

Push Pull

Hoobastank · 2018

41 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of melodic hooks and emotionally charged lyrics that reflect the struggles of modern relationships.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Push Pull — The title track encapsulates the album’s exploration of emotional tension and resolution, featuring infectious melodies paired with introspective lyrics that resonate with listeners.
  • →
    True Believer — This track stands out for its anthemic chorus and uplifting message, representing a pivotal moment of hope and self-belief that defines much of the album's spirit.
  • →
    Just Let Go (Who Cares if We Fall) — With its catchy hooks and relatable message about letting go of fears, this song highlights Hoobastank's ability to blend personal experiences with universal themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

39 /100
Lowland
Higher than 1% of albums we've rated

The album features strong hooks but lacks significant innovation or depth.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature driving guitar riffs and anthemic choruses, establishing a high energy that persists into the fourth track.
  • Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing their emotional impact.
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
4/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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

  • steady mid-tempo drive
  • sing-along anthems with friends
  • introspective moments of reflection
  • uplifting energy for daily routines
  • cathartic release through catchy hooks

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer slower, soundscapes
  • seek purely instrumental tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2018, 'Push Pull' marked Hoobastank's return to the music scene after a five-year hiatus following their 2013 album 'Fight or Flight'. This fifth studio album showcases their evolution while staying true to their alternative rock roots, navigating themes of love and self-acceptance amidst changing musical landscapes.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • True Believer

    The bridge moment shifts to an empowering declaration that emphasizes personal strength in adversity.

    This transition elevates the message from self-doubt to affirmation, marking a powerful turning point within the song.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Don’t Look Away 3:29
  • 2 Push Pull 3:08
  • 3 More Beautiful 3:53
  • 4 Head Over Heels 3:58
  • 5 True Believer 3:21
  • 6 Just Let Go (Who Cares if We Fall) 2:58
  • 7 Better Left Unsaid 3:34
  • 8 We Don’t Need the World 3:56
  • 9 Buzzkill (Before You Say Goodbye) 3:58
  • 10 Fallen Star 4:21
  • 11 There Will Never Be Another 4:25

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata