Baldy Crawlers make a striking first impression with “Hatred?” the opening glimpse into their upcoming EP Fais Toi Plaisir. Rather than relying on sweeping political statements, the band approaches the subject of war through a deeply human lens. Inspired by the haunting image of soldiers standing over a kneeling prisoner, songwriter Martin Maudal found himself captivated not by the violence itself, but by the shared misery etched across every face. That quiet revelation forms the emotional backbone of the song, transforming it into a poignant meditation on the emotional burden of hatred and the fragile humanity that persists even between enemies.
Built around gentle acoustic guitar strumming and the warm, melancholic embrace of a cello, “Hatred?” thrives on restraint. The arrangement never overwhelms its message, instead allowing every note to settle naturally into the spaces between the lyrics. The stripped-back instrumentation creates an intimate atmosphere that feels less like a polished studio recording and more like a heartfelt conversation unfolding in real time. There’s a timeless quality to its contemporary folk sound, proving that simplicity can often carry the greatest emotional weight.
The vocal performance reinforces that intimacy beautifully. A rich, husky lead voice rises above softly layered harmonies, while the surrounding voices create a communal texture that feels raw, organic, and deeply human. Rather than presenting a lone narrator, the harmonies suggest a collective conscience, as though multiple perspectives are wrestling with the same impossible question. This interplay gives the song remarkable emotional depth, particularly as the opening lines recognize humanity in someone who has been labelled an enemy. It’s a subtle but powerful reminder that conflict often dehumanizes everyone caught within it.
Baldy Crawlers’ broader musical identity draws from an eclectic background, combining the craftsmanship of Berklee-trained musicianship with influences stretching from Latin jazz to contemporary folk. Yet on “Hatred?,” they deliberately keep things grounded, allowing emotional honesty to eclipse technical display.
As the first taste of Fais Toi Plaisir, “Hatred?” introduces Baldy Crawlers as thoughtful storytellers unafraid to tackle difficult themes with grace and empathy.
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Review by: Naomi Joan