I think it's safe to say that any band or artist would fear a sophomore slump, especially when their debut was praised by so many critics. The long-awaited sequel to 2013's Days Are Gone did not disappoint and the trio of sisters brought their trademark 80s pop rock sound. Some of it is even reminiscent of 90s pop with influences like Shania Twain on the catchy "Little of Your Love" and even Janet Jackson on "Walking Away." Listening to the Haim sisters is very pleasing to the ears. Whenever they harmonize, you get lost in their voices because it's so dreamy and relaxing even though it's a fairly emotional album.
The album is a bit of a rollercoaster in that it has its ups and downs in a relationship, which can be relatable to nearly anyone. It's a simple story. It begins with the main character wanting to go back to an old flame even though she knows it'd be a mistake. As the album progresses, she tries to get the guy back in many attempts, but fails to do so. By the middle of the story, she's given up, but of course, he finally notices the hints and would like to give it another shot. However, she's over it and gives him the "it's too late" excuse and the album ends on the somber note of "Night So Long", which ends abruptly at the 3:04 mark. Just like any relationship, they can end just like that.
HAIM has given the world another hit record, but is it better than their debut? It's not. Is it a sophomore slump they'd feared? Definitely not. Maybe three is the magic number and hopefully their next one will be a classic. ★★★½
★★★★★ Classic | ★★★★ Excellent | ★★★ Good | ★★ Fair | ★ Poor