_{By Abi Falin}

“Music was no stranger in our home,” reflects vocalist and guitarist Marie Hopoate. She and her brother Rob, a pianist, grew up in a home surrounded by singers. The siblings’ inherent connection to music laid the foundation for their band HASHA. Little by little, the duo added additional members to their band: Kyle on drums in 2018, Mitch on guitar in 2019, and Aaron on bass, completing their band in 2020.  

Describing their debut EP, Marie says: “We chose our theme Let Me Forget You because we wanted to explore the different feelings that can sprout in a relationship of love and compromise, as well as anger and loss.” The resulting EP is an embodiment of soulful authenticity, artfully blending the distinct musical influences of each band member.  Woven with threads of pop, R&B, and indie, listening to Let Me Forget You feels like watching a waterfall cascade in slow motion. 

“Away,” one of the EP’s tracks, mirrors the wisps of mist dissipating at the base of a waterfall. The song captures the notion of running away with the one you love. “Take my hand, take a chance,” Marie’s vocals implore, echoing the sentiment of daring to embrace the unknown, like running into deep water.

“Be Sorry” presents a stark contrast to the previous song, with its theme of letting go of someone who wronged us. The offbeat rhythm and drum arrangement harmonizes with Marie’s soulful, potent vocals. The lyrics feel like surrendering to currents of water, carried by emotion: “You’ll never be sorry; you take what you want from me.” 

With each song, the EP’s blend of influences and beautiful storytelling beckons listeners in, showcasing an amazing diversity in sound that promises potential in HASHA’s future.

Make sure to follow HASHA on Instagram, snag tickets to their Velour show on August 17, and listen to “Be Sorry” below.