"Homecore" opens with unbridled optimism and love, completely devoid of cynicism with the uplifting "Can You See the Sun?" The excitement of new love and its possibilities are pondered in "Woke Up With You", while Brock Harris puts music and voice to the words of lifelong friend Brian Lamb on the love gone bad song "I Wonder". Things become a bit ambiguous and eccentric on the should've gone platinum song "Arkansas", while there's little left to the imagination on the straightforward "Silence Yourself". "Homecore" goes out on a bleak note (very much reflecting Brock's personal life at that time) with "I Wish I Could Tell You", pining for a friend who was taken away unexpectedly, way too young. "Peace Be With You" wrestles with the idea of knowing your relationship is over- the two of you basically can't stand each other- and then your partner finds out they're terminally ill and you're unable to feign sympathy.

End with despair. No happy endings here. Subject matter would devolve further on 2009's "Get Out!", but "Homecore" nails it. The rhythm is there. The hooks. The simplicity and universal nature of the lyrics. The bad times, the hopelessness, but trying to stay positive. Trying to find some blue skies in an absolute mental hell.

"Homecore" was the first official Blue Skies in Hell release. Written and recorded in 2003-2004, the original four song EP was released September 27, 2005. Now it is being re-issued with an additional 3 bonus tracks that were also written and recorded during the same time, but have never been officially released until now. A home recorder home recording from years ago-- I hope you enjoy!