An Intimate Journey: A Deep Dive into Kellin Quinn’s Solo Project - Haunted Mouths
by Britney McVey | February 14th, 2025
Cover Provided by Big Picture Media
Kellin Quinn, known for his emotive vocal work as the frontman of Sleeping with Sirens, is stepping into uncharted territory with his debut solo project, Haunted Mouths. His first album, A Collection of Greetings, released on February 14th via Rise Records, and it shows to be a departure from his signature post-hardcore roots. Far removed from the explosive energy of his band, Haunted Mouths introduces a new landscape—a dreamy, atmospheric journey that's both intimate and expansive. With lush, ethereal soundscapes and an instantly recognizable voice, Quinn, alongside long-time friend Aaron Marsh (frontman of Copeland) for writing and production, creates a deeply personal collection of tracks that explore love, loss, and the intricate beauty of life itself. In A Collection of Greetings, Quinn celebrates vulnerability and creativity in its purest form—stripping away the familiar to present something refreshingly new.
The pre-release single and first track on the album, “Further Til We Disappear,” opens with a beautifully euphonious sound that immediately sets the tone for the entire album. As Quinn’s voice enters, listeners are gently invited into a world of soothing calm, with lyrics like, “Further down the rabbit goes/shut my eyes keep you close.” This song is an ideal choice for an album opener, showcasing Quinn’s ability to maintain a steady meter while creating a serene, loving atmosphere that effortlessly draws listeners into the album's journey. Quinn has drawn from a variety of influences for this project, though it seems likely that his wife played a central role in shaping the emotional depth of this work.
The second track, “Tunnel Vision,” retains the same airy, vintage sound that captivated me in the opening song. This subtle, nostalgic overlay adds a layer of heart to the song, creating a sense of warmth and timelessness, much like the enduring nature of true love. The track leans more into repetition, with the line “Through the static, all I see is you” standing out to me, enhancing its emotional resonance. It’s clear that Quinn poured thought and care into every aspect of this album—each song has a way of drawing me in on the first listen, and with every track, I find myself more and more hooked.
Casting Over Them” marks a shift in the album’s tone. The track opens with a rich layering of Quinn’s vocals, soon transitioning into a heavier guitar moment that adds depth and intensity. While Quinn’s voice remains true to its gentle essence, this song delves into the complexities of love, confronting both internal struggles and external challenges. It becomes clear that the narrative is about overcoming these obstacles and letting people say what they want since it shouldn’t matter to them. “Searching For a Fire,” like its predecessor, dives straight into the lyrics, creating an immediate connection with the listener. The raw, intimate recording style of this song gives the impression of Quinn sitting by an unlit campfire, playing just for you. The warmth and vulnerability of the tone make it my favorite track on the album. Lines like, “When we couldn’t see the future and the past was far behind” and “The stars that shine above were meant for you” capture a sense of longing and hope that resonates deeply, cementing the song as my favorite in the album.
Every song on this album carries a profound emotional depth that’s felt from the very first beat. On a first listen, I highly recommend experiencing the album in its intended order, as the flow between tracks creates a seamless, almost cinematic journey. The way each song builds on the previous one is truly captivating. As the album progresses, you can hear Quinn’s increasing willingness to experiment with sound. “A Collection of Greetings” maintains the familiar tones established in the first two tracks, while “Everywhere / Forever” introduces a stronger focus on vocals and percussion, creating a more dynamic feel. The opening instrumental of “So Peculiar” evokes the sense of an opening scene in a coming-of-age film, setting the stage for a new chapter. With lyrics like “Be my getaway car / On a slippery road,” the track beautifully captures the feeling of embarking on a thrilling yet uncertain adventure, further deepening the emotional narrative of the album.
The final four tracks on the album—“So Peculiar,” “Meanwhile,” “Becoming Nameless,” and “You Built This”—are nothing short of pure artistry. As a long-time fan, it’s incredibly moving to witness how Quinn continues to pour his heart into every lyric and every performance. Each song carries a unique emotional weight, further cementing the album as a deeply personal and transformative work.
Quinn’s growth as an artist is undeniable, and his ability to craft songs that resonate so deeply with listeners is a testament to his dedication and passion. With a release on Valentine’s Day, its clear that Quinn produced this incredible album purely from the heart.
