Henry Hall - “Nervous Cousin”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 5

Pairs Well With…Father John Misty, Ween, Ben Folds Five

Biting, funny, and charming, Henry Hall’s songwriting stands out immediately on his debut full-length Neato, an imaginary dog named John being the subject of the record’s first track. That clever focus rides through the whole of Neato, a power-pop record bursting with rock hooks. With so many ultra-serious artists as Hall’s indie-pop peers this SXSW, basing his songs in humor and winking storytelling is quickly refreshing. Most importantly, his songwriting is backed up musically - Neato is studied in classic pop and rock forms, but delivered in a modern, cooled-out way. Calling Neato a debut is a bit misleading too as Hall has several EPs and singles since his first in 2015. Throughout he’s been aiming for the same consistently breezy, catchy indie rock sound guided by classic pop songwriting. Chronologically, it’s clear how Hall has been honing his sound with a tighter, more detailed take on retro-fitted crooning delivered in a contemporary and eclectic way. (Kevin McStravick)