By Indigo James, Music Editor
The Haim sisters—Danielle, Este, and Alana—open up about their fourth album, I Quit, which marks a significant shift towards personal growth and artistic freedom. The album reflects their journey through heartbreak, therapy, and self-discovery, shedding industry expectations to embrace authenticity.
Collaborating with longtime creative advisor Paul Thomas Anderson, the trio delivers a cohesive visual and musical experience that resonates with fans and critics alike.
A Bold Declaration of Independence
The title I Quit was inspired by a memorable scene from the 1996 film That Thing You Do!, a childhood favorite of the sisters. In the movie, a character repeatedly says “I quit” into a microphone—a line the Haim sisters often jokingly used while testing mics growing up. As they developed their album, they noticed a recurring theme of letting go and moving on, both emotionally and creatively. Alana described this as a subconscious process, likening it to stream-of-consciousness songwriting.
The album’s themes are deeply personal, stemming from a period of change for the band members. After returning from a euphoric post-pandemic tour, all three found themselves single, with Danielle ending a nine-year relationship with the band’s longtime co-producer Ariel Rechtshaid in early 2022. This album marks their first without Rechtshaid, though he does have a co-writing credit on “Relationships,” a track they began working on in 2017.
Musical Evolution and Genre-Defying Sound
I Quit showcases Haim’s willingness to experiment and defy genre expectations. The album features a blend of country rock in “Blood on the Street,” dance-pop in “Spinning,” and a rawer, more stripped-down aesthetic throughout. Alana noted that this album is “the closest we’ve ever gotten to how we wanted to sound,” emphasizing their desire to create without external pressures.
The production, led by Danielle Haim and Rostam Batmanglij, brings a fresh energy to the album. Batmanglij’s influence is evident in the album’s eclectic sound palette, reflective lyrics, and detailed electronic elements, all while maintaining authentic instrumentation. The result is a sound that feels both grounded and exploratory, balancing polish with raw emotional intensity.
Each track reveals a layer of the band’s evolving identity. The arrangements are more daring, the lyrics more introspective, and the overall tone more confident than their previous releases. It’s a sonic journey that reflects the trio’s commitment to growth, change, and self-acceptance.
Visual Cohesion with Paul Thomas Anderson
Longtime collaborator Paul Thomas Anderson played a significant role in shaping the album’s visual identity. He shot the album’s cover art and has previously directed several of the band’s music videos, including “Man From the Magazine” and “Summer Girl.” Anderson’s cinematic approach complements Haim’s musical narratives, creating a cohesive artistic experience.
The visuals are stark yet evocative, mirroring the themes of the album. With muted color palettes, dramatic lighting, and minimalist compositions, the imagery invites the viewer into Haim’s emotional landscape. These visuals deepen the listener’s connection to the music and add a layer of storytelling that extends beyond sound.
Singles Reflecting Personal Growth
Ahead of the album’s release, Haim has shared several singles that delve into themes of self-discovery and empowerment:
- “Relationships”: A candid exploration of love and its complexities.
- “Everybody’s Trying to Figure Me Out”: A track that addresses the pressure of external expectations.
- “Down to Be Wrong”: An anthem about embracing one’s imperfections.
- “Take Me Back”: A nostalgic tune longing for simpler times.
Each single has been praised for its lyrical honesty and emotional resonance, with fans and critics noting the band’s evolving sound and deeper vulnerability.
Upcoming Tour and Live Performances
To support I Quit, Haim has announced the “I Quit Tour,” set to begin on September 4 in Philadelphia and conclude on October 31 in Glasgow. The tour will span 29 shows across North America and the UK, including a major stop at Madison Square Garden in New York City on September 8. Indie artist Dora Jar will open for the North American leg of the tour.
The band promises an immersive live experience, integrating the album’s visuals and themes into their performances. Fans can expect a show that blends music, storytelling, and powerful stagecraft.
