Album Review: We Can Help by David Hamilton
Alright, let’s talk about We Can Help, the quirky little gem from David Hamilton that somehow sneaks up on you when you least expect it. This UK-born project isn’t your typical music album—it’s labeled under “Non-Music,” but don’t let that scare you off. Instead of beats and melodies, Hamilton dives headfirst into spoken word with a promotional twist. It’s like listening to someone give a TED Talk while vibing to their own energy drink commercial. Weird? Sure. Intriguing? Absolutely.
The title track, We Can Help, slaps you in the face (in a good way). Hamilton’s voice has this oddly hypnotic quality—like he’s selling you something you didn’t know you needed. The cadence is smooth, almost rhythmic, even though there’s no real tune. You find yourself nodding along like, “Yeah, okay, I guess you can help.” It sticks because it’s both earnest and kinda over-the-top at the same time. Like those late-night infomercials that make zero sense but somehow convince you to buy a salad spinner.
Another standout moment comes halfway through—I won’t spoil which one—but imagine if motivational speaking had a baby with lo-fi background ambience. There’s this one part where he repeats a phrase so many times it starts feeling like a mantra. By the end, you’re not sure if you’ve been inspired or brainwashed, but either way, it works.
What makes We Can Help memorable isn’t just its weirdness; it’s how damn relatable it feels. Who hasn’t felt lost and wished someone would swoop in with some magical solution? Hamilton taps into that universal yearning without taking himself too seriously. And honestly, that’s refreshing. Plus, kudos to him for releasing this independently under “Not On Label.” DIY spirit for the win!
So yeah, this album might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But if you’re into stuff that blurs the line between art and advertising, or if you just want something completely different to throw on during a road trip, give We Can Help a shot. Oh, and here’s a random thought: if they ever made this into a movie, I’d totally watch it. Just saying.
