Song of the Day: “Work It Out” by HXLT

Name: HXLT
Representing: Chicago, Illinois
Genre: Post-Punk, Alternative
For fans of: Trevor Andrew
Single from: “HXLT”
Produced by: HXLT
Song of the Day: May 20, 2016
Label(s): GOOD Music

HXLT holds no punches.

As he wakes up in a comfortable bed dressed in black sheets and pillows, Chicago-born Alternative musician HXLT looks annoyed within seconds of rising. His girlfriend is on his right, fighting with him about something that seems to be small and innocuous. At first glance, you’re unsure what to make of her aggression but when lyrics like “I give you valid points with facts outlined in chalk. I realize you’re not listening; you’re just waiting to talk. I ask what I just said, and you have no idea. I think I actually saw it going out your other ear” are sung, the verity of HXLT’s argument is detailed and precise.

A breakup song showcasing familiar “HXLT guitar riffs” and a bouncy, danceable tempo, the GOOD Music signee shares why he’s leaving his girlfriend for good.

“Your mind is a one-way highway. (It’s a trap.) With no offering for anything I say. (So wack.) Shout match Saturday through Friday. (All that.) I have to fight to get anything my way. (All wack.)”

Seldom we hear this side of the relationship from a male, in pop culture, in song, talking a woman who is demanding and not willing to bend or compromise on anything for a relationship to work, or to remain healthy. A truthful voice from a “post-punk- vocalist” as David Jeffries describes, is necessary for today’s culture. We need to hear and understand more of what guys go through in relationships. As women, if we knew more, we’d have reason to do better.

From the looks of it; HXLT will stand clear of a delicate and a manic woman next round. Watch the new video for “Work It Out” below and check out his self-titled debut album. There are five official music videos available on his VEVO account for “Perfect”, “Sick”, “Guitar” and “Live To Death.”