Albert Hammond Jr.
AHJ
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

2013 LE 10" EP with inner sleeve. Albert Hammond Jr.'s "AHJ" is an EP that distills his distinctive aesthetic into a tight collection of five tracks, showcasing his ability to blend indie rock sensibilities with an infectious pop flair. The record opens with "St. Justice," a song that immediately hooks the listener with its jangly guitars and Hammond's signature vocal delivery, which effortlessly combines a sense of urgency with melodic introspection. Throughout the EP, Hammond Jr.'s guitar work remains a focal point, characterized by crisp, interlocking riffs that recall the sonic textures of his work with The Strokes, yet carry a distinct personal imprint. The production, handled by Gus Oberg, enhances the raw, yet polished sound, allowing Hammond Jr.'s songwriting to shine through with clarity and emotional resonance.

On tracks like "Rude Customer" and "Cooker Ship," Hammond Jr. explores themes of personal reflection and transformation, embedding each lyric with a sincerity that avoids the pitfalls of overwrought sentimentality. The EP's brevity is one of its strengths, as it leaves little room for filler and maintains a cohesive momentum from start to finish. "AHJ" serves as a testament to Hammond Jr.'s evolution as a solo artist, demonstrating his ability to craft songs that are both immediate and enduring. With this release, he solidifies his position not just as a guitarist in a celebrated band, but as a compelling musical voice in his own right.