Metallica will be releasing their highly anticipated new album, Hardwired…To Self-Destruct, on November 18th via Blackened Records. We’ve all heard the ‘Hardwired’ and ‘Moth Into Flame’ singles by now, and the legends have just announced when the next single is coming our way. Continue reading
The alternative rock scene seems to be at a loss recently, with many bands releasing ‘new’ albums that sound exactly the same as everything that they have ever released. As the genre was originally meant to contrast against mainstream rock music, it is easy to see exactly why so many people are complaining about it at the moment. However, an exciting new alternative rock album has just been released in time for summer… Cue Imbue (Rise) by The Early November. The dictionary definition of imbue is ‘to inspire or permeate with a feeling or quality’, and that is exactly what the New Jersey quintet have managed to achieve with their fourth studio album.
Opening track ‘Narrow Mouth’ is a toe-tapping and spine-tingling rock anthem; the unique melody of the song makes it extremely catchy and impossible to get out of your head. Lead singer Ace Enders’ vocals sound strangely nostalgic yet beautiful, which enables the interesting lyrical content to shine through perfectly. To put it simply, ‘Narrow Mouth’ is a breath of fresh air in a so-called ‘dying’ genre.
‘Boxing Timelines’ is the first single that the band have released from Imbue and it is easy to see why. The romantic lyrics appeal to the masses and the guitar riff is simplistic yet effective. The chorus is infectiously catchy, which seems to be a reoccurring feature on the album. The happy-go-lucky anthem has the perfect summer vibe which provokes happy and nostalgic emotions from the listener.
It is easy to see exactly why The Early November have described Imbue as ‘the most natural and fitting album’ that they have ever created: every song flows perfectly into the next, despite each one sounding completely different. Don’t let the laid-back nature of the album fool you though, as it is easy to hear the passion oozing out of every track.
It definitely would not be an over exaggeration to call Imbue one of the best, if not the best album that The Early November have released. It is clear that their hiatus, along with their other ups and downs, have made them a much more dedicated and sophisticated band. Many bands would shy away from talking about their past, however, The Early November have learnt a lot from their experiences and they have become much stronger.
9.0/10
The Early November on Facebook
JULIA CONOPO
Bands all across the metal and rock spectrum seem to be releasing a lot acoustic EPs recently, with bands such as Issues, Hands Like Houses and PVRIS trying to gain more fans by releasing stripped-back versions of their songs. California-based quartet Secrets are the latest post-hardcore band to try this tactic, but it is safe to say that they have made it work well. The acoustic and relaxed attitude of Renditions (Velocity/Rise) is the perfect summer playlist and works well for when you are not in the mood to hear screaming vocals, but still love alternative music.
Opening track ‘Forever and Never’ instantly sets the tone for the EP; slow-paced riffs and melodic vocals. Aaron Melzer and Richard Rogers are definitely using Renditions to their full advantage, demonstrating their unique vocal ranges and beautiful harmonies.
‘Dance of the Dead’ is full of well-written vocals and melodic harmonies. Although acoustic songs often sound simple, it is easy to hear exactly how much work has gone into this EP. The chorus is extremely catchy and it is definitely a stand-out song.
Third track ‘Fragile Figures’ proves that acoustic songs do not have to be boring; every song on this EP has its own unique style and sound completely different to the originals. It’s unusual to hear this song without its infamous harsh vocals and breakdowns; however, it proves that Secrets are multi-talented and able to appeal to a wide variety of music fans.
Final song ‘What’s Left of Us’ is one of the slowest songs on the EP, but it provides a fitting end to a beautiful record. The vocals are powerful and soulful, allowing you to completely absorb the lyrics and theme of the song. The almost orchestral sound is impressive and proves that Secrets are not just a one-trick pony; their music is universal and they are talented musicians.
9.0/10
JULIA CONOPO