Anderson Hao's 'out of slogans' Is a Sentimental Sonic Time Capsule
Anderson Hao’s new EP out of slogans is full of personality, honesty, and dynamic musicality. In her third project since her musical debut in 2023, Hao puts her every inner thought into a 22-minute journey of self-understanding. The project, co-produced by Hao’s partner Ari Rivera, showcases their creative synergy. "It’s a manifestation of the work we've put in to achieve a sound that is honest," Anderson explains. "In short, the record is a time capsule of the past six months of my life—everything I felt and experienced."
out of slogans opens with “nevermind,” an intriguing start that captures listeners instantly with its funky, soft electronic beat and dissonance. An understated confessional, it’s the perfect primer for the engaging listening experience ahead. It seamlessly transitions into the second track, the previously released single “ruin july.” On it, Hao explores the passage of time with her intimate vocal performance, almost like she's whispering a tightly-held secret in the listener’s ear.
By the third track, “7_21,” it becomes clear that this project is an intentional body of work where each song prepares the listener for the next. With its underlying consistent synth and beautiful piano melody, “7_21” evokes a visceral reaction that morphs as it goes on. In “this will probably change,” Hao introduces a more standard pop beat that drives the record forward.
The focus track of the EP, “why is it always the valley,” details discarding counterfeit love in the pursuit of yearning for something real. On the making of the song, Hao says “This song explores the idea of letting go of one opportunity to allow yourself a better one. The track is about leaving a false relationship into something real, a personal journey of self-discovery.” It’s definitely a standout track and as she sings, “It’s easy to hide in the valley,” it’s also easy to get lost in the beauty of the music. From the voicemail in the bridge to the soft, revealing vocal performance, this track feels like an honest look into the interworking of Hao’s mind.
The EP ends with three introspective tracks, “the end,” “everyone before,” and “takes two to.” With each track title more interesting than the last, out of slogans culminates on a high note. Both “the end” and “takes two to” end with production breakdowns that mimic the beautiful chaos of emotional turmoil. “everyone before” is a beautiful ballad with a simple guitar strum, where Hao sings, “I am everyone I’ve been before / No less, no more.” In the final track, Hao expresses her anxiety about new beginnings and fear of the past repeating itself. Although the fear is present, the hope of restarting is stronger.
Listen to out of slogans below:
