Space Discovery: HANS HALSTEAD – “Everything Was Better When It Was Worse”
Hans Halstead’s Everything Was Better When It Was Worse is an introspective and socially charged album that blends folk, indie rock, and sharp lyricism. Released on January 3, 2025, the record reflects on politics, identity, and personal struggles with a poetic yet raw approach. Drawing inspiration from Bob Dylan, Halstead delivers a mix of storytelling and melodic craftsmanship that feels both timeless and urgent.
The album’s title track sets the tone with a melancholic yet reflective energy, exploring disillusionment and the weight of the past. Tracks like Dancing at the Edge of the World channel vintage pop balladry, while Time and Place and Say You Won’t, Say You Will inject bursts of optimism with their infectious melodies. Day of Love stands out as one of the most poignant moments, paying tribute to the victims of the Parkland shooting, giving voice to those lost in an emotional, deeply human way.
Throughout the record, Halstead’s mellow yet commanding vocals guide the listener through a landscape of nostalgia, regret, and hope. The arrangements—featuring piano, violin, and saxophone—add richness and texture, complementing the depth of the songwriting. The album feels like a conversation between past and present, questioning whether things were truly better before or if we’ve just rewritten our memories.
With Everything Was Better When It Was Worse, Halstead offers a compelling blend of personal reflection and social commentary, cementing himself as a storyteller unafraid to tackle heavy themes with grace and sincerity.
