Description
Waxing Poetics – Hermitage – Compact Disc
Waxing Poetics’ Hermitage, released in 1986 on Emergo Records, marks the debut of this Norfolk, Virginia-based indie rock band. The album blends jangly guitars, melodic hooks, and introspective lyrics, capturing the essence of the mid-1980s alternative rock and college radio scene. Waxing Poetics quickly established themselves as a group with an ear for catchy yet thoughtful songs, standing out amidst the burgeoning jangle-pop movement that was thriving in the South. Hermitage is not just an album but a snapshot of a time when alternative rock was carving out its identity, with bands like R.E.M. leading the charge. Waxing Poetics, while less commercially visible, contributed meaningfully to this movement with their intelligent songwriting and compelling sound.
The album’s production played a significant role in shaping its character. Hermitage was co-produced by Mitch Easter, a legendary figure known for his work with R.E.M. and Let’s Active, and Mike Mills, R.E.M.’s bassist. Mills also contributed piano to the track “Return,” adding a layer of richness to the song’s melodic structure. This collaboration imbued the album with a polished yet authentic feel, perfectly aligning it with the Southern jangle-pop aesthetic that Easter helped define. The production emphasizes clarity and warmth, allowing the guitars to shimmer while keeping the rhythm section tight and energetic. The result is a collection of tracks that feel both intimate and anthemic, a balance that made the album stand out in the indie rock landscape.
The tracklist showcases the band’s range and versatility. Songs like “Beauty and the Beatitudes” and “If You Knew Sushi” deliver upbeat, hook-driven rock with sharp, memorable choruses, while tracks like “Friday’s Child” and “Hermitage” explore more introspective and reflective tones, demonstrating the band’s emotional depth. “Living Chairs (Going Through the Walls)” and “Mrs. Dance’s Skeleton” exhibit Waxing Poetics’ knack for blending surreal, thought-provoking lyrics with tight, infectious instrumentation. The album’s title track, “Hermitage,” serves as a centerpiece, encapsulating the themes of introspection and longing that permeate the record. Together, these songs create a dynamic and cohesive listening experience, with each track offering something distinct while contributing to the album’s overall mood and narrative.
Hermitage received positive critical attention upon its release. Reviewers praised the band’s melodic sensibility and literate songwriting, often drawing comparisons to R.E.M. and other leaders of the indie rock movement of the time. The album was celebrated for its ability to balance catchy, accessible tunes with thoughtful narratives, making it a favorite among college radio stations and indie music enthusiasts. Tracks like “This Parade” and “Distinction” particularly highlighted Waxing Poetics’ ability to blend earnest emotion with clever wordplay, solidifying their reputation as a band worth following.
Despite its critical acclaim, Hermitage didn’t achieve widespread commercial success. However, it has endured as a cult favorite, especially among fans of jangle pop and 1980s alternative rock. Its charm lies in its authenticity and the genuine effort the band puts into each song, unburdened by the pressures of mainstream expectations. The album was later reissued on CD, ensuring its availability to a new generation of listeners.
While Waxing Poetics may not have reached the commercial heights of some of their contemporaries, Hermitage remains a significant release in the indie rock genre. It captures a moment in time when heartfelt songwriting and a love for classic rock traditions merged with the experimental ethos of the indie movement. For fans of bands like R.E.M., Let’s Active, or The Connells, Hermitage offers a rewarding listen that bridges the gap between the familiar and the innovative. If you’re interested in exploring the roots of American indie rock or diving deeper into Waxing Poetics’ discography, this album is an essential starting point and a timeless testament to the band’s talent and vision.
Brand new, never played
Emergo Records
Track Listing
beauty and the beatitude
if you knew sushi
living chairs
holiday child
walking on thin legs
mrs dance skeletons
this parade
hermitage
a year by air
