An invigorating rock energy emanates throughout salt, the new album from likethehotels. The Phoenix-based project represents the work of Ian Hilton, previously a member of various bands (Mortigi Tempo, Visitors, Red Memory). Following a relocation, Hilton began embracing a solo direction — finding himself without a band or collaborators for the first time in 15 years.
“I decided to take stock of my skillset and find out how much I really know about making an album on my own,” Hilton explains, referring to the release as a “musical passport,” to “see just how far I could push my skillset.” The result is a gripping display in songwriting and production, spanning from the opening raucousness of “cosplay rockstar” to the trickling nocturnal synth-touched atmospherics within “halite.”
Seemingly critiquing the hedonistic, superficial elements of fame around an “upturned nose rockstar,” the scorching opener intertwines punk-friendly vocal shouts with snarling guitar distortion and questioning vocal passion: “Where’d you get your start, big shot?” they ask, followed by “true art demands!” vocal responses that prove especially invigorating. A lusher, introspective shift — “enjoy the view perched from way on high,” — showcases the project’s dynamic tonal chops, following the onslaught of heavy-rock charisma.
The diverse tonal ranges continue on “10 & 2,” maintaining a hard-rocking fervency while still differentiating between an initial intensity and moments of reflection; the latter is grippingly apparent as declare “but never mine,” into an array of bubbling synths and sporadic guitars. The production evolves seamlessly into a final 30 seconds that bursts with blistering rock passion. “wilderness” follows with a gentler trickling, culminating in a “take me outside,” yearning with guitar tones oozing with ’90s nostalgia, particularly in a textured Siamese Dream vein.
Bell-chiming and ambient blares open the climactic “gadarene” with ample intrigue, thematically feeling like a continuation of the opening “cosplay rockstar.” A venomous, metal-friendly vocal screaming is evident in the chorus, while the verses muse on “dirty politicians,” and “culling of the herd,” with thematic emphasis on divide — particularly pertaining to societal and economic disparities. The punchy guitars and melodic vocals on “go$pel” prove similarly artful in themes, distinguishing between “bootstraps” and “bag” in highlighting a disparity between hard work and benefitting from privilege; the production excels with more soaring vocal intensity and crisp instrumentation, diversifying from the heavier onslaught apparent on other tracks.
Gorgeous finale “in stride” builds patiently, unveiling lush acoustics amidst striving for connection — pining to “just give me a chance to be heard, an acquaintance would suffice,” as jangling guitars and steady percussion emerge. The emotive vocal conveyances, gentle piano infusions, and consistent guitar tones swell into an anthemic mid-point — “so willing to listen,” — and provides a final, impactful showcase of the project’s ability to infuse swelling structures within poignant, affecting lyrical pursuits — ranging from societal critiques to personal yearnings. salt is a fantastic showcase in rock songwriting and production from likethehotels.
