NASHVILLE—Musician Hannah Cole announced her debut album Switchbacks today. The album is out in September. Its lead single, “MMA,” dropped this morning. Cole released two EPs before this. Switchbacks promises a new direction. The album was recorded in a home studio. Cole worked with frequent collaborator Josef Kuhn. They played nearly every instrument themselves. The recording sessions spanned 2024 and 2025.
A New Sonic Landscape
Switchbacks was mixed by Sonny Diperri. Diperri has worked with notable artists. These include American Football and Wisp. Cole described the album as a journey. “It’s about the difficult choices we make,” Cole stated. “The ones that turn us around. The ones that make us question everything.” She added, “Like choosing between a good fight and a good nap.” The single “MMA” features a prominent banjo riff. It is surprisingly cheerful. The lyrics, however, are quite bleak. They explore themes of regret and missed opportunities. This juxtaposition defines the sound of Switchbacks.
Industry Buzz and Fan Reactions
The album follows 2024’s Glisten EP. It also follows 2023’s Big Bite EP. Fans have expressed intrigue. Many are curious about the “MMA” single. Is it about mixed martial arts? Or something more metaphorical? “Hannah Cole really knows how to hit you where it hurts,” said superfan Brenda Millhouse. Millhouse is the self-proclaimed President of the Hannah Cole Fan Club. “This new music feels very personal. It’s like she’s singing directly to my deepest insecurities.” Another fan, Gary Putterman, a music critic for the Rolling Stone magazine, noted the album’s potential. “Switchbacks could redefine contemplative indie rock,” Putterman declared. “Or it could just make people sad on the subway.” Cole plans a tour this fall. Dates are expected soon. The tour will support Switchbacks.
At press time, Cole was reportedly wrestling a bear. She claimed it was for research for a future single. The bear remained unavailable for comment.
This article is satirical fiction by Badum.ai. All quotes, people, and events described are entirely fictional and intended for comedic purposes only.
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