Kellin Quinn, the lead singer of emo band Sleeping With Sirens, possesses one of the most identifiable voices in modern melodic rock. Recently, he launched a solo project to lean into a softer side of his work, titled Haunted Mouths. The project swept forth and unveiled debut album, A Collection of Greetings, a graceful move between lush, sparse, plaintive, and meditative tones.
The fierce loyalty of the singer’s devoted following is a testament to how his songs draw strength from vulnerability. While he will always embrace loud guitars and soaring choruses, Haunted Mouths indulges Kellin’s passion for atmosphere and vibe. Produced and co-written by Aaron Marsh (Copeland), A Collection of Greetings wraps an invitingly familiar voice in powerful, dreamlike soundscapes brimming with rich ambiance and mood.
Haunted Mouths’ debut album was released on February 14th, and marks a significant departure from Kellin Quinn’s work with Sleeping With Sirens. This lo-fi indie-pop project, co-written and produced with Aaron Marsh of Copeland, showcases a more intimate and experimental side of Quinn’s artistry.
The album opens with “Further Til We Disappear,” immediately setting a serene tone that contrasts sharply with Quinn’s previous high-energy endeavors. His distinctive voice remains a focal point, delivering emotion and charisma that blend seamlessly with the subdued instrumentation. Tracks like “So Peculiar” and “You Built This” highlight the album’s strengths. The former offers an urgent, upbeat indie-pop vibe, while the latter provides atmospheric depth, both benefiting from Quinn’s straightforward approach. “Becoming Nameless” surprises with a saxophone solo, adding a unique texture that enriches the listening experience. However, not all experiments hit the mark. “Tunnel Vision” and “Searching For A Fire” venture into more abstract territories, occasionally feeling aimless. Despite Quinn’s commendable vocal performance on “Searching For A Fire,” the accompanying music lacks direction, making these tracks less impactful.
The genesis throughout this body of work is noteworthy; written and recorded over a concise two-week period, it benefits from a cohesive flow. The understated guitar, piano, and drums create a dreamy backdrop for Quinn’s introspective lyrics. The title track, “A Collection of Greetings,” envelops listeners in warmth, with Quinn expressing deep affection: “Even when I’m worlds away, you still won’t have to wonder what I’m thinking.”
A Collection of Greetings stands as a testament to Quinn’s versatility. It invites both long-time fans and new listeners to experience a different facet of his musical journey, blending haunting melodies with heartfelt lyrics to create a solid introduction to this new venture.
Listen to the album HERE on Spotify and check out the newest music video from the album, “Meanwhile”. Make sure to follow Glasse Factory for more new music and other musical news!
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