Haims I Quit: A Journey Through Relationships, Self-Discovery, and a New Sound

In the world of music, few bands exude the essence of California quite like Haim. Despite a recent breakup for the lead singer, the band continues to deliver a unique sound that resonates with fans. With their fourth album, "I Quit," the Haim sisters declare their experience with relationships and the expectations that come with them.

The absence of longtime collaborator Ariel Rechtshaid, who the lead singer/guitarist Danielle Haim split with after nine years, is evident on this album. Instead, Vampire Weekend founder Rostam Batmanglij's influence is heavily felt, delivering a softer sound than anything Haim have produced before. While "I Quit" is a departure from their indie-rock roots, it still retains some of the eclectic elements that made their previous album, Women In Music Pt III, so special.

The album opens with a declarative statement from lead singer Danielle Haim: "Can I have your attention please? For the last time before I leave." The lyrics give an insight into some of the struggles the band finds itself in, sometimes caught in between thoughts. However, this is where the album falls short at times, and where editing could be needed. Songs like "Lucky" and "Million Years" show that maybe Haim could've done some editing to tighten up the album's flow.

Other songs on this album feature associations one would have with breakups and relationships. The biggest idea is the whole concept of quitting altogether. The sisters are, frankly, done. And they're happy to reclaim their authority over chauvinistic men whilst also dreaming of times when boys weren't such a thing. "Take Me Back," sung in a brighter song-speak style than Lou Reed might've employed, brings us there.

Two songs in particular that stand out are "The Farm" and "Cry." "The Farm" is almost a part two to Women In Music Pt III's "Hallelujah," and it's strong when all three sisters are on the same page and lifting each other up. But the song that might be the most refreshing is Este Haim's lead vocal debut with "Cry," which offers a beautiful texture that breaks through an album which could've sounded the same. That's part of the benefits of having three strong vocalists. It's very 90s in the most spectacular way, and it doesn't hurt that the melody reminds me of Boy Blue from Electric Light Orchestra (if an octave or two lower).

At the end of the album, "Blood on the Streets" and "And Now It's Time" feel like one song too many. While it's good to bring back the refrain from the opening track with inspiration from U2's "Numb," it doesn't quite deliver the same impact as the rest of the album.

Overall, "I Quit" is a solid effort from Haim that continues their journey since their critically acclaimed Women In Music Pt III. While it may not have quite the same bite as their previous work, it still offers a unique sound and some standout tracks that showcase the band's talent and growth as artists.