Exploring the Surreal Soundscape of Cory Hanson’s *I Love People*
Unearthing the Apocalypse
It’s getting strange in our digital realms, isn’t it? This peculiar sensation we experience—*out here* or *in here*—is a reflection of our reality, woven between the narratives of national pride and the specter of terror. We find ourselves immersed in the remnants of data centers, receiving information that feels as rich and chaotic as blood-drizzled chocolate delivered by drone to our eager mouths. The word “apocalypse” translates to “unveiling,” suggesting that as we reveal more of ourselves, we are driven to confront our existence in a revival tent of sorts, participating in a danse macabre that reveals our true nature.
A Record for Our Times
If this resonates with you, then Cory Hanson’s latest album, *I Love People*, is specifically crafted for your ears. This remarkable work serves as a contemporary Americana pastiche, seamlessly fitting alongside the likes of Harry Nilsson and Steely Dan without raising any eyebrows among the audiophiles of Laurel Canyon. However, it possesses a surreal, darker tone, contrasting sharply with its Watergate-era influences. As we navigate the tumultuous landscape of 2025, marked by societal unrest and conflict, Hanson encapsulates his alienation in a warm embrace of love, crafting songs that emerge not just from the headlines but from the complex emotions they elicit.
Musical Exploration
Opening with “Bird on a Swing”
The album kicks off with the lively track “Bird on a Swing,” featuring a rich arrangement by the members of Hanson’s main band, Wand. Known primarily as a guitar virtuoso, Hanson composed much of *I Love People* on the piano, giving the album a lively saloon sound that starkly contrasts with the ethereal soundscape of Wand’s 2024 release, *Vertigo*. His clear, unwavering vocals deliver a barstool defiance that conceals a deeper malaise: “I have no blood left in my veins / I gave it all up to the empire.” This free spirit might be a war-weary casualty, with the titular swing hinting at a darker fate.
Paranoia and Mission Creep
The specter of mission creep looms large throughout the album. Hanson, well-versed in the language of the paranoid left, populates his musical landscape with tripwires that stretch from Chihuahua to Afghanistan. The album cover, featuring a blank, crosshairs-trained grimace, suggests a bipartisan disillusionment. *I Love People* acts as a critique of the late Biden administration’s folksy facade, with its nostalgic yacht rock undertones hinting at a return to a flawed normalcy. The title track’s ironic sway—“I love people / With incurable disease…”—epitomizes this sentiment.
The Narrative Arc
Confronting Harsh Realities
The album unfolds like a film that veers into darker territories. In “Santa Claus is Coming Back to Town,” there’s no festive joy for the returning veteran; instead, the song highlights the bitter realities of a troubled homecoming. The closer, “On the Rocks,” presents a playboy who abandons his KKK associates (if not his heartbreak) in pursuit of dangerous adventures on an island reminiscent of Little St. James.
Conclusion
Cory Hanson’s *I Love People* is a compelling exploration of our contemporary landscape, masterfully blending elements of Americana with a dark, surreal twist. The album serves as a mirror reflecting the complexities of our emotions in a world rife with contradictions and turmoil. Through his poignant lyrics and engaging melodies, Hanson invites listeners to confront the unsettling truths of our times while simultaneously celebrating the shared human experience.
FAQs
What genre does Cory Hanson’s *I Love People* belong to?
The album is primarily categorized as contemporary Americana, incorporating elements of country and yacht rock.
What themes are explored in *I Love People*?
The album addresses themes of alienation, societal disillusionment, and the emotional turmoil stemming from current events.
How does *I Love People* differ from Hanson’s previous work with Wand?
While his work with Wand often features guitar-driven compositions, *I Love People* is primarily piano-based, providing a different sonic texture.
Is there a specific message that Hanson conveys through the album?
Hanson conveys a message of love amidst chaos, urging listeners to confront the darker realities of modern life while fostering a sense of shared humanity.
