Sydney's emo pop-punk sensations, A Swift Farewell, have officially dropped their highly anticipated debut EP, 'Hollow Threats,' and it's nothing short of a six-track emotional rollercoaster. Produced and mixed by the acclaimed Nat Sherwood (known for his work with Stand Atlantic and Yours Truly) and mastered by Grant Berry at Fader Mastering (whose credits include Thornhill and Static Dress), this EP is a masterclass in blending raw feeling with sonic power.
'Hollow Threats' is a captivating sonic exploration that effortlessly weaves together elements of emo, pop-punk, alternative rock, electronica, and even a touch of metalcore. Each song delves into a different facet of personal struggle, from the suffocating grip of depression to the profound journey of coming out, the sting of betrayal, and the imbalance of one-sided relationships.
The band revealed the EP's title is lifted from a poignant line in the track 'Homeless': "Inflicted your fears in a hollow threat that I saw through." They further elaborated, "Each song holds its own meaning, but together they express the broader themes of hardship, challenges, and depression."
The EP kicks off with the atmospheric, synth-soaked 'I Never Wanted This…', a brief but impactful intro that sets a melancholic tone before abruptly cutting to a tape-stop effect, signalling the start of the emotional odyssey. This segues into 'Silence,' a track brimming with distorted guitars, relentless drums, and anguished vocals that perfectly capture the sharp pain of betrayal and the shattering impact of being let down.
The explosive single 'The Haunting,' featuring Amariah of Future Static, is a standout. It begins with an eerie laugh before erupting into a furious storm of aggressive guitars, searing vocals, and a driving bassline. Amariah's guest spot injects a dynamic intensity, amplifying the song's message of self-sabotage and the nagging belief that one isn't worthy of love. Following swiftly is the focus track 'Just Breathe,' featuring Besties, which maintains the EP's relentless momentum with propulsive rhythms and a modern pop-punk sound infused with powerful metalcore screams. Together, these tracks delve into the overwhelming grip of depression and the desperate plea to "just breathe" amidst the turmoil.
The EP then takes a darker turn with 'Hold Me Down,' a melancholic yet powerful track that dials down the tempo, opening with delicate arpeggiated guitar lines. It gradually builds to a raw, emotionally vulnerable chorus before an acoustic guitar bridge offers a brief respite from the emotional intensity.
Just when you think the emotional journey might be over, 'Hollow Threats' concludes with its most vulnerable moment: the heartbreaking, piano-led ballad 'Homeless.' This track captures the inner conflict and exhaustion of coming out, beginning with stripped-back instrumentation and a raw, sorrowful vocal performance. As the song progresses, gritty guitars and steady drums join in, mirroring the lyrical weight. With its steady build and lyrical clarity, 'Homeless' delivers a powerful, reflective finale to an EP deeply rooted in pain, identity, and growth.
For more from the band, be sure to get in touch on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X.
