MUSIC FOR YOUR EARS Discover the REVIEW of Perfect Rules By Thomas & The Angry Hearts

Thomas & The Angry Hearts have long been recognised for their signature
fusion of Americana, Irish folk, and rock-inspired pop. Based in Lillestroem, Norway,
the band has built a strong reputation for their spirited performances and heartfelt
storytelling. Their latest single, Perfect Rules, recorded at Studio Studio Nyhagen in
Toten, is a deeply emotional ballad with an energetic undercurrent. Produced by the
legendary Ronni Le Tekro of TNT and co-produced by Kjartan Hesthagen, the song is
an evocative exploration of fatherhood, regret, and the complexity of parental guidance.
Lyrically, Perfect Rules is profoundly introspective, painting a poignant picture
of a father’s inner turmoil as he reflects on the many rules he imposed upon his son. The
opening lines — ‘I told you to be grateful / as if you were not / I told you don’t be
hateful / as if you were’ — set the tone for an emotionally charged narrative. The lyrics
convey the conflicting emotions of a parent striving to mould a child into the best
version of themselves, while simultaneously acknowledging personal shortcomings.
Thomas Warhuus Aadland, the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, delivers these lines
with raw sincerity, his gravelly voice brimming with both warmth and remorse.
The song’s melodic structure effortlessly intertwines energetic folk-rock
instrumentation with a deeply sentimental ambiance. The arrangement is beautifully
layered, with radiant, chiming guitars creating an irresistible hook. The rhythm section
— comprising Stig Terge Inderberg on bass and Leiv-Rune Gully on drums — provides
a steady yet dynamic pulse that enhances the track’s anthemic quality. Subtle piano
accents and the rich harmonisation between Aadland and Hilde B. Aadland elevate the
song’s emotional weight, making each chorus echo with an aching sincerity.
Musically, Perfect Rules strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and forward
momentum. The production quality is outstanding, ensuring that each instrument shines
while maintaining cohesion. The interplay between mandolin, melodica, and electric
guitar creates a rich sonic landscape, giving the song a timeless yet contemporary feel.
The fluid transition between subdued verses and an uplifting chorus mirrors the lyrical
themes of regret and hopeful reconciliation.
One of the song’s most remarkable moments comes in the refrain: ‘Carry on,
travel on / Don’t look back / I’m sorry I cannot change the past.’ This line, delivered
with a powerful duet between Thomas Aadland and Hilde B. Aadland, carries an
emotional weight that lingers long after the song ends. The combination of male and
female vocals adds a layer of vulnerability, emphasising the father’s deep longing for
atonement.
Beyond its technical brilliance, Perfect Rules possesses an undeniable emotional
depth. The song forces listeners to confront their own relationships and the sometimes
unintentional consequences of well-meaning guidance. The narrative explores the
complexity of parental influence — how rules, despite being set with the best intentions,
can sometimes feel restrictive rather than nurturing. This universal theme makes Perfect

Rules highly relatable, as it speaks to the delicate balance between structure and
freedom in any parent-child relationship.
The craftsmanship behind Perfect Rules is evident in every aspect, from its
intricate instrumentation to its heartfelt delivery. Thomas & The Angry Hearts have
once again demonstrated their ability to create music that is both sonically engaging and
emotionally compelling. The song is not just a melodic triumph but also a reflection to
the band’s ability to blend storytelling and musicianship into a cohesive experience.
All in all, Perfect Rules is an outstanding track that shows the band’s ability to
create music that is both thought-provoking and deeply moving. The song’s universal
themes of love, regret, and reconciliation are delivered with such sincerity that it is
impossible not to be affected. Whether you’re drawn to its soaring harmonies, heartfelt
lyrics, or intricate instrumentation, Perfect Rules is a song that leaves a lasting impact.
This is an essential listen for fans of folk-rock and storytelling-driven music alike,
proving once again that Thomas & The Angry Hearts are a band worth following.

Review made by Lucy Cicioni