Bradley Hathaway - All the Hits So Far But Don't Expect Too Much
Label: Self-Release
Style: Slam Poetry, Spoken Word
Released: 2004
My Grade: 4.5 stars
AMG: n/a
Sounds like: No one I have ever heard before.


The Debut release from Bradley Hathaway is a surprisingly fresh collection of poetry with musical interludes performed by Sam Billen (The Billions). Slam poetry is not common in the world of alternative music, but Bradley brings some powerful incite into the world of a twenty-two year old struggling with life, love, sex, image and future.

He starts the disc with an announcement “…I woke up today without that five million pound boulder of stress on my chest…” and so begins an album filled with knowledge and humor – a welcome change of pace from the melancholy and shallow world of indie rock. Bradley Hathaway breaks a modern stereotype on each track, blurring the lines of sarcasm and the message he brings.

The standout track is easily “The Annoying Hardcore Dude That Goes Too Far” – he talks about a growing trend in conformity that is slowly usurping the underground community. He makes valid points about the insecurities that plague the current ‘hardcore’ scene, and he does it in a way that is not hateful or spiteful – it is understanding and explanatory.

The album never pushes the lines of obscene, or hateful, he never tries to shock anyone or get angry for the attention; he does not need to use shock to add value. He speaks from his heart, and that love is clearly seen. His uncompromising voice being showcased through his poetry. His passion for Christianity shows in each individual track, but don’t let that discourage those who do not share his faith, his message surpasses borders and religions. It is a universal message of love. The overall theme of love blankets the album, providing the hope and beauty needed to make a truly great CD.

Reviewed by: Samuel Aaron