The Hard Quartet
The Hard Quartet
Matador Records [2024]
“Listening to The Hard Quartet is like sitting in on an intimate conversation between friends who really know each other.”
Album Overview: The Hard Quartet is made up of four heavy-hitters, each with an impressive indie legacy. Emmett Kelly, Stephen Malkmus, Matt Sweeney, and Jim White have all been making music for years, and it shows. Emmett has been involved with The Cairo Gang and played alongside Will Oldham and Ty Segall, while Stephen has been the voice behind Pavement and The Jicks. Matt’s collaborations are incredibly diverse, from Chavez to Johnny Cash, and Jim is a powerhouse known for his work with Dirty Three and PJ Harvey. The collaboration between these four artists makes The Hard Quartet feel like a new chapter for each of them, combining their skills into something distinct. The Hard Quartet’s self-titled debut isn’t just a gathering of talented individuals—it’s a cohesive statement that balances each of their strengths while creating something entirely new. This album doesn’t try to revive the past or lean on nostalgia; instead, it’s a confident gathering of talent. It’s warm but challenging, with 15 tracks spanning 53 minutes. The second half of the album hits a lull at times, and it might have benefited from being pared down to ten tracks, leaving the rest for a follow-up EP. However, the chemistry between the members is palpable, as their strengths click naturally together—so why not present all their ideas, given that a full-length follow-up might not be guaranteed?
Musical Style: The Hard Quartet is a rich tapestry of sounds, blending rock grit, folk-inspired warmth, and a touch of improvisation that keeps things unpredictable. The guitars shine—sometimes intricate, sometimes raw—and the drums add personality, making even simple beats sound dynamic. Vocally, the back-and-forth between the different members feels organic and conversational. The songs often alternate between direct, punchy melodies and more atmospheric, reflective parts, creating an emotional journey that draws you in from the start.
Evolution of Sound: This album isn’t just about four talented musicians showcasing their skills; it’s about how they’ve evolved together in a short period. You can hear how each member’s past experiences shape the music, but there’s also something distinctly new here. They’re not trying to prove themselves—it’s about expression and the joy of creating something together without worrying about expectations. That’s what makes The Hard Quartet refreshing. It captures the sound of musicians who have seen a lot but are still excited to be creating, giving the whole record an effortless, grounded vibe.
Artists with Similar Fire: If you’re trying to place The Hard Quartet’s sound, think of bands like Wilco or Malkmus’s work with The Jicks. These artists inject a special mix of rock energy, introspection, and looseness that keeps things fresh. There are many moments reminiscent of Pavement’s projects, especially when they lean into guitar-driven sounds. The story-like quality of the lyrics evokes Silver Jews, while Jim White’s drumming adds layers that recall the unpredictable yet cohesive rhythms in Dirty Three’s music. It’s familiar but also has its own distinct flavor that stands out.
Pivotal Tracks: Several tracks bring the band’s chemistry to life. “Our Hometown Boy” captures the perfect interplay between Matt Sweeney and Emmett Kelly, with their voices and guitar lines complementing each other beautifully. “Renegade” is a full-on rocker that showcases the band’s ability to deliver high energy when they want to. “Action for the Military Boys” is another upbeat highlight, with Malkmus leading while the intricate guitar work adds a cool swagger in the background. “Rio’s Song” offers a laid-back yet powerful moment, conveying a feeling of resilience that sticks with you as all the members come together for the chorus.
Lyrical Strength: The lyrics on this album are honest and introspective, touching on themes like connection, trust, and growing older. There’s something deeply human in their reflections on time and change, but it’s never heavy-handed. Instead, the lyrics are thoughtful, filled with vivid images and a kind of wisdom that only comes from experience. The stories feel personal yet connected, with all voices uniting around a common theme. This unified message makes the album feel that much more meaningful.
THE HARD QUARTET LINKS
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