This Side Of The Island

That voice is wisely placed front and centre, where it bristles with energy, elevating the superior indie-rock of Fist Of Flowers and Knockin' Heart into heart-in-mouth anthems. [Apr 2025, p.102]

Though the lyrics sometimes explore the US's increasingly polarised political allegiances, Leithauser's passionate optimism and the record's grooving drums keeps our spirits up until mesmeric guitar arpeggios usher in the beautifully pensive title track/closer. [Apr 2025, p.79]

Some of the most compelling tracks on This Side of the Island help to recreate the magic of previous highlights yet still feel tied to the borough. For the most part, though, Hamilton Leithauser seems content exploring another side of his craft, one with equally commanding vocals, more finesse, and pleasant surprises along the way. Even if the record remains pure Bedford Stuyvesant art, it will echo across the bay and resonate with listeners everywhere.

Like many albums recorded over many years, at various studios with different producers, This Side of the Island can feel a bit scattershot and piecemeal. .... Still, his ragged charisma holds it all together.

Leithauser has worked solidly on his strengths - muscular and expansive, pop-rock songs with standout lyrics - to distinctive effect. [Apr 2025, p.33]

It may never touch the heights of The Walkmen’s best moments like The Rat or In The New Year, but these sharp, charming love songs show off anther side to Hamilton Leithauser.