We got to know Myles Bullen earlier this year when he released his Mother’s Day anthem “I Love You, Mom”. He showed us that hip-hop and emotions don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
Even when I had only heard that track, I was excited to hear a whole project from Bullen. After putting out another single, he dropped his LP, Healing Hurts in November.
This is an album that is a must listen. I’m glad I waited to put out my Best of 2020 list because this album definitely deserves a spot.
“Swallowing Bruises” tricks you into thinking it will be a typical rap song with the Soulja Boy-esque “YOOU!!” at the beginning. The vocal cadence/flow on verses reminds me of the indie hip-hop group Why?
This is probably my favorite track on this album and has the most replay value for me. The lyrics and plays on words are clever without being too goofy. Bullen switches up his flow consistently and it serves as a real resume within a song.
“Sweetdreams” is a ballad type song. This is one of the singles that Bullen released earlier this year. This song deals with some super heavy topics such as self harm and doubt. This is clearly one of those artists who’s overflowing with empathy. Myles’ genuine nature shines through on tracks like this. The background instrumental reminds me of Arcade Fire or Architecture in Helsinki.
Guest vocals by Emily Bodley fit perfectly and are equal parts haunting and soothing.
“Suitcase of Sexuality” explores the idea of finding our personal sexual identity and dealing with the expectations of others, including our parents.
At this point in the album, this began to feel like Bullen’s personal diary, similar to listening to Mac Miller. There’s a level of frustration here that is calmly communicated and deeply relatable.
“Smile” is a stripped down acoustic hip-hop number. Smiling through personal adversity and bringing light to social injustices in our country are the main themes.
“I can only build if I tear the walls down” is the line that sums up this song best.
“Miss You Daily” is a bit of a heartbreaking track. As someone who has lost people close to me, this is a perfectly eloquent tribute to those who have passed on too soon. This is the longest song on the LP, clocking in at almost 7 minutes. There’s a spoken word interlude that is extremely personal and adds another layer to the emotional onion that is Healing Hurts.
“Afraid of Love” includes the second vocal feature on this album, this time by Emma Ivy.
To me, this is the closest thing to a pop song on this record. This song will force you to calm down and as someone who has anxiety, that’s always appreciated.
Emma Ivy’s verse is unexpected and refreshing. To be honest, this made me look up her Spotify catalog as well.
“Shiny Rock (freestyle)” is the closer on this release and it’s very fitting.
Recorded in more of a demo style, this song really showcases Bullen’s DIY ability. I could totally see him being commissioned to do an indie movie soundtrack at some point. This particular track gave me male Kimya Dawson vibes.
Overall, Healing Hurts is a super genuine and emotional ride. There’s something here that everyone can relate to. None of the songs are overdone or haphazard. Everything has a place and it seems very purposeful.
The album isn’t too long so it’s easy to just leave on repeat.
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