Kellin Quinn has long been a defining voice in post-hardcore, but with his new solo project, Haunted Mouths, he embarks on an entirely different sonic journey and branches far from his norm. A Collection of Greetings, out February 14, 2025, via Rise Records, is a stark departure from the sounds of Sleeping With Sirens and most artists Quinn has collaborated with over the years, trading in electrifying breakdowns for dreamy, slow-burning bedroom pop, with a twist of indie rock, and infused with moody atmospheres and heartfelt lyricism.
From the moment "Further Til We Disappear" opens up the album, it’s clear this is Quinn at his most intimate. The track, an indie-rock-inflected love letter to his wife, layers delicate yet funky bass lines with poignant and haunting synth work, setting the tone for an album that thrives on emotion and vulnerability. "Tunnel Vision" follows suit with synth-heavy textures, acoustic guitars, and subtle vocal processing that elevate Quinn’s already distinctive voice.
As the album progresses, "Casting Over Them" introduces a pulsing bassline that brings a sense of movement to the record, while the track "Searching For A Fire" stands out as an acoustic-driven folk-inspired ballad, rich in introspection. These songs showcase Quinn’s ability to weave storytelling with sonic exploration, making each track feel both personal and expansive.
The title track, "A Collection of Greetings," strips things back further, allowing his vocals to take center stage over a sparse but haunting arrangement of synths, acoustic guitar, and distant drum echoes. It’s a deeply sentimental moment that encapsulates the album’s thematic core—love, memory, and devotion to his wife and family.
In the latter half of Quinn's solo record, "Becoming Nameless" surprises with a sultry saxophone solo that merges seamlessly with the dark, brooding bedroom-pop aesthetic, while the closing track "You Built This" is an emotionally charged finale reminiscent of The 1975’s slower, melancholic moments, blending haunting bass with atmospheric production to give listeners a solid conclusion.
Co-produced with Aaron Marsh of the alt-rock/indie pop band Copeland, A Collection of Greetings is the product of a seamless creative partnership, with the songs coming together in just two weeks. The result is an album that feels cohesive yet adventurous, pushing Quinn’s artistry into new, exciting territory.
While some fans may expect elements of Sleeping With Sirens to creep in, Haunted Mouths is a fresh endeavour, proving that Kellin Quinn is more than just the frontman of a beloved post-hardcore band—he’s an artist unafraid to evolve. With lush production, introspective lyrics, and an ethereal soundscape, A Collection of Greetings is a hauntingly beautiful listen and an exciting new chapter in Quinn’s musical journey.
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