Album Review: Billie Eilish's “Hit Me Hard And Soft”
One of the first times I really sat and listened to Billie Eilish outside of just playing in the background on the radio was a gorgeous duet of “Ocean Eyes” with Alicia Keys. I had heard people say that she couldn’t really sing, just do that whisper-singing thing. But this performance was so impressive, she held her own vocally with Keys, which is not easy for any living human to do.
I've always admired the dark, sinister aspects of her music, like the chilling "call me back" in "When the Party’s Over." And although after several listens I can say I liked the album, I do miss those moments, the twists that make you turn and look at the stereo with your hair standing on end. But the best moments are when she sings loudly and with emotion, channeling her inner Keys.
The album's first half is laden with ballads, showcasing Eilish’s vocal prowess and her ability to convey emotion through minimalist arrangements. Tracks like "Chihiro" and "Wildflower" are undeniably beautiful and well-crafted, but they left me yearning for those unexpected drops and dark surprises. Coming back to the album after several listens, I appreciate these songs. But it's not until "The Greatest" that, for me, the album started to deliver that raw, edgy vibe.
"The Greatest" is a standout track that to me encapsulates what makes Eilish a unique force in the music world. With an acoustic opening that builds into a complex, rhythmic crescendo, it's a testament to her and her brother Finneas' innovative production skills. The song’s intricate layering and evocative lyrics, "all my love and patience, all my admirations - all the times I’ve waited for you to want me naked, made it all look painless, man am I the greatest," capture that blend of vulnerability and confidence.
Eilish’s exploration of personal and sensual themes in “Lunch" is fun, and the beat is irresistibly catchy. It does seem to rely on shock value, though, and not the unexpected, innovative kind that I’ve liked about her previous work. I like the song, but I’d have expected more nuance from her.
This album also marks a shift towards more pronounced vocal moments. In previous records, Eilish was often accused of relying too heavily on whispery vocals. Here, several powerful, resonant notes showcase her vocal range and control.
I definitely found the pacing of the full album uneven, but at the end of the day that diversity is also a strength. The lyric “twenty-one took a lifetime” is a reminder of the intense scrutiny and pressure Eilish has faced at such a young age, and her ability to navigate it with grace and resilience.
“Hit Me Hard And Soft” didn’t immediately hit me hard, but slowly, softly crept in to hit me nonetheless. It’s the right kind of album for Eilish to make now, one that shows more emotion and range than her previous forays. And though it’s not a contender for one of my favorites for far this year, the songwriting is sound. It’s a testament to Eilish’s evolving artistry, her willingness to take risks, and her undeniable talent.
