Hope Track Review

Hope is Arlo Parks’ most recent release from Collapsed in Sunbeams, an album that also gave us Green Eyes.

C: My favorite part of this song is the intro, which immediately caught my attention. I love the drums in this so much, and the piano melody is so jazzy and peaceful.

L: I’m really struck by the storytelling here. The melody is pretty, the singing is lovely, but what she does especially well here is create a character who’s suffering. Lines like “Can’t feel her legs” can only come from digging deep into your own humanity.

C: Right, and the track is about something so important - everyone’s declining mental health during this pandemic, but it’s presented in such a digestible, simple way that everyone can relate to.

L: Lots of people, including one of my favorite DJs, are saying “You are not alone” on the daily right now. And it’s helpful. Normally I don’t watch music videos, but I was curious about this one. The characters connect and heal through touching, dancing, singing, laughing and crying together. It’s a tricky narrative - that’s exactly what we all need to do right now, and we can’t.

C: I really enjoyed the music video, and I think it was smart that she told the story through the use of a separate character. It brings a different perspective, like you could be that person they’re talking about.

L: I think we’re all that person once in awhile. I like Hope quite a bit, and after listening to Collapsed in Sunbeams, I can honestly say her music only gets stronger throughout the album.

C: I completely agree. The rainy day vibes are immaculate. Additionally, I’m usually not a fan of spoken word breaks in songs, but this one kind of works. It fits the tone and feels like a friend talking on the phone with you.

Ratings Scale: If Green Eyes is an Arlo Parks 10/10, this is a 7/10.

C + L