HAIM – “I Quit”

HAIM’s I Quit arrives as one of 2025’s most anticipated releases, but it struggles to live up to the high expectations set by Women in Music, Pt. III. This album marks a clear shift for the trio, as Danielle Haim teams up with Rostam Batmanglij to co-produce following her breakup with longtime collaborator Ariel Rechtshaid. The result is a record that sounds clean and glossy but rarely captures the spark or cohesion of its predecessor.

The production is still polished, with shimmering guitars and sharp percussion, yet it often feels too restrained. While Danielle’s vocals remain expressive, the mix gives her voice space without building the same emotional intensity that HAIM’s music usually thrives on. The album’s sound aims for experimentation, but in trying to explore new territory, the group loses some of their identity.

Lyrically, I Quit continues HAIM’s signature introspection but without the same bite. Themes of heartbreak, change and self-discovery are all here, but they feel recycled. It’s as if the band wants to process their transitions openly yet can’t find the words or energy to make it feel new. The writing lacks the clever turns of phrase and layered vulnerability that once set HAIM apart.

Some moments show glimpses of what could have been. “Relationships” channels 90s pop with nostalgic charm, its melody tight and infectious. “Take Me Back” balances an upbeat rhythm with emotional uncertainty, while “Million Years” closes strong with one of Danielle’s best vocal performances on the album. These tracks show HAIM’s ability to craft compelling pop rock songs when everything clicks.

Unfortunately, those highlights are few and far between. I Quit runs 15 tracks long, clocking in at 53 minutes, and its length becomes a problem. The pacing drags and the repetition between songs makes the album feel bloated. Where Women in Music, Pt. III felt lean and emotionally direct, I Quit meanders, circling around familiar ideas without landing on something memorable.

To HAIM’s credit, they do take chances here. They try on new sounds and approach their production differently, proving they aren’t afraid to evolve. But the risks rarely pay off, leaving the album feeling disjointed and oddly hollow. It’s ambitious in theory, but the execution falters.

Ultimately, I Quit is an uneven record from a band capable of much more. It’s not without its bright spots, but the songwriting and energy just don’t land. For a group once known for balancing vulnerability with confidence, this album feels like a step back rather than forward.

For Fans Of:

• Alvvays – Blue Rev
• Charly Bliss – Young Enough
• Snail Mail – Valentine