Album Review: Back And Forth Forever by Hobart W Fink
Hobart W Fink’s Back And Forth Forever isn’t your run-of-the-mill rock album. Released in 2014 and self-published under the artist’s own label, this record feels like a raw, unfiltered snapshot of someone wrestling with their thoughts—and maybe their demons too. It’s not perfect, but that’s kinda the charm. The US-based musician delivers a mix of tracks that oscillate between moody introspection and gritty energy, making it an album you’ll either vibe with instantly or need a few listens to fully appreciate.
The tracklist is a wild ride: “Dreamies,” “Tiny Doors,” “Queer,” and “Cats” set the tone early on, while later songs like “Final Fantasy VII” and “So Many Losers” keep things unpredictable. But two tracks stood out for me personally—“Atlantic City” and “My Friend.”
“Atlantic City” hits different because it’s got this haunting undertone mixed with driving guitar riffs. You can almost picture yourself wandering through dimly lit streets, feeling both lost and found at the same time. There’s no big, flashy chorus; instead, it builds slowly, pulling you deeper into its world. I kept coming back to it long after the first listen—not sure if it was the melody or just the mood, but something about it stuck.
Then there’s “My Friend,” which flips the script entirely. It’s more upbeat, almost conversational, like Hobart’s sitting across from you sharing stories over a beer. The lyrics are simple yet oddly relatable—lines about loyalty, doubt, and those complicated friendships we all have. It’s one of those songs that sneaks up on you when you least expect it, reminding you of people you haven’t thought about in years.
Other tracks like “Final Fantasy VII” bring a playful edge (yes, it’s as nerdy as it sounds), while “Hundred Dollar Bill” leans into a grungier, almost rebellious vibe. Not every song lands perfectly, but that unpredictability keeps the album engaging.
What makes Back And Forth Forever memorable isn’t just the music—it’s the sense that Hobart W Fink didn’t care much about fitting into any mold. This album feels like a personal project, crafted for himself as much as anyone else. And honestly? That sincerity shines through.
So here’s the kicker: listening to this album felt less like reviewing music and more like eavesdropping on someone’s diary. If you’re into rock that doesn’t try too hard to impress but still manages to leave a mark, give this one a shot. Just don’t blame me if “Atlantic City” gets stuck in your head for days.
