_{By Joe Metro}

With their indie-folk sound and three-part harmonies, HATCHBACK exemplifies the epitome of guys being dudes. This was what first came to mind when I was introduced to them at probably the oddest lineup of bands I have witnessed at Velour Live Music Gallery. They closed the night, having been preceded by a band with that quintessential high school rock-and-roll vibe, Tamedog, and Provo’s rowdiest alt-rock band, English Budgies. When the band explained they wrote most of their songs while driving tour buses in Alaska during the summer, I turned into Kronk, as it was all coming together. 

Best of Me is exactly what you want to have on in the background at a backyard summer party so you don’t end up with that guy that inexplicably finds an acoustic guitar and plays the worst rendition of a John Mayer song you have ever heard. With that being said, the fellas do an incredible job lyrically with each of their tracks, evoking the feelings I have had for a majority of my mid-twenties — feelings of trying to figure out who I am and what I am doing all while navigating relationships as others around me are doing the same.

This album has been my go-to for my morning drive to work. I tend to be incredibly reflective in the mornings, usually questioning my decision to get up so early, but that leaves me vulnerable to pondering the themes of Best of Me. The title track “Best of Me,” arguably my favorite song of the album, has me often thinking of my mother and the lessons and advice that you can only get from a parent. All the while trying to balance being who you are with the social pressures of those around you and not letting yourself and your morals be compromised. It delves into this mindset that hardship and adversity bring out the best of you, though these trials will not get the best of you. 

“Nothing To Say” does a fantastic job of hitting you right in the heart. It offers a viewpoint that differs from “Best of Me” in the sense that while you can be proud of who you are, that pride can inhibit you. The song opens with the line “Well, I think things would be different if I could go back in time, but would I want that? No, I don’t want that.” Often when we self-reflect on past decisions and mistakes, this is due to our growth as people. How our decisions would differ is fundamental in recognizing that we have changed from our younger selves. Too often have I thought of what I would do differently if I could change the past. However, I have come to realize that you are not who you are without the decisions you have made and the mistakes that come from living a life for the first time.

To contrast these songs, “Salmon Run” brings a jovial and fun toe-tapping energy. Guys will hear this song and say “h*ck yeah.” The harmonica and Nate Ahlstrom’s twang-esque singing of these quick and witty lyrics are the stars of this song. Oh if only Utah’s weather was not so bipolar as I, too, am a simple man who just wants to go fishin’.

The biggest complaint that I have for HATCHBACK is that they do not have more music released. I am glad that I found them after Best of Me was released and am so excited for more to come. Until then, I will continue listening to the musings of Nate, Alex, and Jack as I drive to my 9 to 5 while wishing I were around a campfire with some buds after a day of fishing — just enjoying the moment without a thought entering my pretty little head. I cannot wait for them to come back to Utah county so I can catch their next show.

Make sure to follow HATCHBACK on Instagram! Be sure to listen to “Best of Me” below!