Home Is Where: A Deep Dive into “Hunting Season”
Defining Their Sound: The Southern Influence
Home Is Where positions themselves as practitioners of a distinct Southern aesthetic, blending wry humor and insightful storytelling. However, they steer clear of the conventional tastefulness often associated with this genre. Frontman MacDonald narrates experiences that feel more akin to the chaotic energy of reality TV shows like “Jackass” or “Cops” than to a contemplative viewing experience.
Musical Journey: Tracks that Captivate and Challenge
Exploring “Artificial Grass”
In “Artificial Grass,” Tilley Komorny showcases an inventive, subtly virtuosic take on the familiar smothered-and-chunked chords and leads of Southern rock. As the drums churn beneath, MacDonald surveys the desolate landscapes of the abandoned Southeast, evoking the essence of Isaac Brock with a twist of Florida Woman flair.
Maintaining Momentum: A Mixed Bag
However, the album takes a turn with “Hunting Season,” which features a lengthy 13-minute stretch of similar tempo and rhythm that stalls the momentum established by “Artificial Grass.” While tracks like “Black Metal Mormon,” “Stand Up Special,” and “Bike Week” present vivid imagery of Southern decay, their placement directly after the dynamic opener hampers the overall pacing of the album, which boasts a runtime nearly three times longer than the band’s debut.
Rediscovering Velocity: “Everyone Won the Lotto”
Ironically, the album’s pace picks back up with its slowest track, “Everyone Won the Lotto.” MacDonald’s lyrical reflection on the stagnation of company towns in the South is poignant, using “lotto” instead of “lottery” to underscore the small stakes and fleeting nature of hope. This shift sets the stage for a series of standout tracks, including:
- “Shenandoah”: Their most beautiful song to date.
- “Mechanical Bull”: The track that resonates best in a honky tonk setting.
- “Milk & Diesel”: A mini-opera that could charm listeners in a trucker bar.
Then, there’s “Roll Tide,” a sprawling 10-minute noise odyssey that channels the spirit of Animal Collective, infused with the rawness of moonshine-fueled creativity.
Conclusion: A Love Letter to a Complicated Home
Hunting Season culminates in the unique love song “Drive-By Mooning,” which whimsically encapsulates the band’s journey. Ending with a group vocal rendition of their motto, “home is where forever,” it reflects their emo roots and deep-seated connections. Yet, the album serves as a bittersweet love letter to a region that has often failed to reciprocate that affection. Both MacDonald and Komorny have left Florida, fleeing the state’s increasingly hostile environment for trans individuals. Their performances at events like the Liberation Weekend festival in Washington, D.C., highlight their commitment to activism in the face of adversity. For Home Is Where, alt-country transcends mere genre; it represents a longing for an alternate reality where the idiosyncrasies of their Southern roots are celebrated and protected.
FAQs
What themes are explored in “Hunting Season”?
The album delves into themes of decay, nostalgia, and the complexities of Southern life, especially in relation to identity and community.
How does “Hunting Season” compare to Home Is Where’s debut album?
“Hunting Season” features a longer runtime and a more varied musical landscape, showcasing the band’s growth and experimentation since their debut.
What message does Home Is Where convey through their music?
The band expresses a desire for a more inclusive and accepting Southern identity, highlighting the need for a safe space for all individuals, particularly marginalized communities.
Are there any standout tracks in the album?
Yes, notable tracks include “Artificial Grass,” “Everyone Won the Lotto,” and “Roll Tide,” each showcasing different facets of the band’s musical versatility.
