what's happening with Interviews 2020

INTERVIEW: GHOSTKID

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The journey to one’s own unique sound and identity is often a daunting challenge, especially in a music world packed to the brim with incredible talent, yet tough constraints. This challenge becomes even more amplified when trying to reinvent the image created in your previous band in order to break free and truly express what music means to you. In a short period of time, GHOSTKID has taken the wheel of their own musical journey, fuelled by self expression, passion, and the beauty of creating. Ahead of their debut album, we had a chat to GHOSTKID about all things music, identity and what is to come!

STRIFE: Congratulations on your album finalisation!
GHOSTKID: Thanks a lot! It will be out on November 13th!

S: How exciting! I firstly wanted to say, have you encountered any struggles about reinventing both yourself and your sound, because evidently this album is solidifying your name and your presence- so have you found any struggles making this name for yourself?

G: I would say there have been a lot of struggles overall because after the split, I was responsible for myself, you know. It was not that easy to satisfy myself either. If you put a lot of work into something that is fuelled by personal emotions and what you wish for it to represent… it’s so hard to satisfy yourself. When you play in the band you have a lot of different opinions, and at some point, the others will say “that’s good enough”, but when you are responsible overall for everything, it is not that easy. So I’ve really learnt through this experience, I’m the hardest guy to satisfy when creating on my own!

S: Definitely! I guess in the same wavelength, what has been the best thing about being independent and now being in control of your own sound?

G: I would say the best thing is that if you have got a vision of something, you can totally focus on that. There’s no need to have discussions and gather different opinions as well. What I’ve really discovered is that if you’ve got something on your mind, like an image of what it could look like in the end, or sound like in the end, you can move forward toward it. For me, it made me a bit more focused, even if the problems are a bit more complicated to work through on your own. But I would say, it is definitely a big plus so you don’t have to argue about something. I would say you can focus more on what music really should be- you’re more free when it comes down to your creative space!

S: I mean, I guess that it’s no better time to be so free with your music because you’re emerging as an artist in a time that is filled with constraints. How do you think emerging as a new artist within this current environment has limited you- did you have any plans for the big album release ahead?

G: I must say, I haven’t really encountered too many problems with the COVID environment because everything is still in the build-up stages for me. As you said, it’s a new project and to create a good base does take some time. For example, we are a whole band, but even if it were just a solo project, we don’t have equipment at this point, haha! So there is a lot of stuff I have to prepare, and I do most of the stuff on my own, so I would say that the time right now hasn’t affected me in a working sense, but I am totally aware of the problems. A lot of my friends are very much struggling with their own existence and even if I am not really having problems right now, I feel so sorry for all the people that are still trying to make a living right now. It does make me think about the whole situation. What can I do as an artist for other artists? Let’s hope for the best! It’s just a weird feeling to be sitting here- some are struggling, others may not be.

S: Whilst on the topic of your working environment, we saw you come into the scene around 2019 and evidently, your music was fuelled by raw aggression and power. How do you think the circumstances and upheaval of 2020 has helped fuel this same aggression and energy in your newest album?

G: It was definitely not just 2020 that has had an impact on this work. When I started writing that record, there was a lot of stuff going on in my own life, and I was confronted by a lot of my own personal and emotional problems, so the album acted as a relief. Sometimes I wrote some songs that I had not understood in the beginning, but after a while, they became totally clear. It was like a therapy in the end- a release. It turned out really personal, and even if I was singing about a situation I hadn’t been through, they were always in my mind as things I had been thinking a lot about. I wouldn’t say it was only 2020, because a lot of the songs were almost done- but there were certainly a lot of crazy things going on for me earlier. But it’s a weird year!

S: When I was listening to the album, (and I was so lucky I got a little bit of a sneak peek because I really enjoyed it), and as you were discussing then, it is a very personal album. I found throughout the album your songs show vulnerability and passion in these different ways- whether it be through your sombre instrumentals or your powerful vocals. For you, what’s the most important element that brings this level of sincerity and vulnerability to your music, and why is it so important to do this?

G: It’s hard to say. In many ways, it feels as though the songs wrote themselves. It was more that I tried to create music that represents the feeling and the emotions that I felt at that moment. I like to think of it as a subtle feeling, and that is especially the reason why I created songs like ‘Start A Fight’. ‘Start A Fight’ is powerful and shows this through the vocals. I made a little voice message to myself with the line, “I wanna kill something, I wanna destroy something”, and so on, and I started with the vocals. I then started with the riff and everything else. When we were working on it when we were doing the pre-production it turned out that I really understood what all of this was about. I would say a lot of the songs turned out like this because it was a subtle feeling that turned into something bolder and bigger- something like my music.

S: On the album, tracks such as ‘FOOL’, (which is a personal favourite), have a heavy reliance on these anthemic instrumentals and powerful vocals, truly worthy of leading a movement. That leaves me to ask, if you were to give your fans an overview of your movement, your message, what would it be?

G: I would say an all-encompassing, overall message isn’t really there for GHOSTKID. I would prefer to say that GHOSTKID is some kind of an alter-ego for myself, which represents the things that I couldn’t represent as a private person. It’s more like an alter-ego that really deals with the stuff in my head. It’s more of a personification, really!

S: Do you think that GHOSTKID was a long time coming? When did you know that you had to create this alter-ego to finally get out all these feelings?

G: I would say the feeling came when I was working on the last record with my old band. When we were in the studio, we were writing a lot and working tirelessly. At this point, I felt like, “okay, it has not turned out like we had expected it to”. Working hard and in the end you are not proud of what you have created is a struggle, and what is even worse is that it doesn’t feel right to represent those feelings. Personally, I wanted to feel what I was doing. This was the moment where I recognised: “okay, this is not right. It doesn’t feel right anymore, and I need to do something about it”. That led to me grabbing the guitar again for the first time after such a long time and starting to write songs of my own again. I began to recognise that there was truly something I missed for such a long time and it finally felt right- that’s when I knew the other project didn’t feel right. I had to decide because I wanted to focus on something, either 100 percent or nothing; this is where everything started. I felt uncomfortable and decided to do something about it… to feel free again.

S: I can’t begin to imagine the pressure of such a decision but I feel it was an incredible one to make as you have produced such an inspiring album! I cannot wait for more people to hear it! It goes to show on the album itself when you have features from influential artists like Johnny Three Tears. What do you think artists, like Johnny, brought to the album?

G: Overall I was looking for some special artists! I am a really big fan of doing features because it is pretty cool when you have a track that people would not usually perform on. For ‘This Is Not Hollywood’ I had the feature of Timi Hendrix, which was my first one. I thought because the song was so important for me, I wanted to spread the message internationally. This was the same intention when we came in touch with Johnny Three Tears. I asked him if he would like to be on the track, and I think the really cool thing is that every artist also got their own story on this track. The music industry is incredibly screwed up- it doesn’t matter if you’re a really big and successful artist or a small one, everybody is facing the same problems and the same pressures. It’s really weird. It’s even weird for me when you’re on stage and people are looking up to you thinking that you are someone special for them- some people can deal with that, and some cannot. I think it’s something we all have to deal with and there can be a lot of struggles with that. But long story short, every artist is dealing with their own stories and demons, and that is the reason why these feature tracks turn out so great, they tell these stories.

S: So I suppose music acts as your own personal escapism too?

G: Yeah, exactly. I would say the reason that I started music in the first place was to have a home. It sounds a bit crazy but it really was like that. When I was younger, I was always looking for a place. I started playing basketball and skating, but I never stuck to something as long as I have to music because with music you are responsible for what you are creating- this gave a sense of hope for me. I recognised that if I felt terrible, I could put it in a song and feel a bit better about the situation because I had a release. So I would definitely agree!

S: Have you ever questioned the music industry itself, particularly the heavier side of the industry, and what it promotes as opposed to your own beliefs as an artist?

G: Of course you need the music industry to spread your music, but I think as an artist you need to be aware of what it is. It is a really good thing when you keep the control, especially the control of yourself. Of course, the music industry gives you a bag load of money if you are successful and represent you as an artist. But there is a reality that some of the industry doesn’t care about your personal situation. There are a lot of examples, like Amy Winehouse. These people totally blow up and then go into a downward spiral because of the attitudes toward musicians. It’s important to have the music industry, but you must be aware of it as an artist. It’s all about that!

S: I guess on a personal basis, how do you plan on celebrating such an important release?

G: I would say just drinking, haha! Maybe with some friends. I mean, that’s the only possibility we have got right now! Probably as well just sitting down and thinking about what we have created because if you work really hard on something, sometimes you become blind toward what it is you have created. This process takes some time, you’re working a lot, so after this time it really feels good to sit down for a while and just think about what you’ve done!

We would like to thank GHOSTKID for the incredible chat, via Skype, of course!

If you enjoyed this interview, you are sure to enjoy the soon-to-be released album from GHOSTKID, dropping on the 13th of November! We cannot wait to see what you think, and we are even more excited to see the future of GHOSTKID!

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ALBUM REVIEW: Alpha Wolf – A Quiet Place to Die

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After months of teasing, spectacular single releases and a ton of reassuring Covid content, Alpha Wolf have finally dropped their new album, ‘A Quiet Place to Die’. True to form, the Australian metalcore outfit have created something truly powerful, raw and fierce. The release of their second studio album has not only seen them create memorable tunes and tracks we know will ignite their next live shows, but has seen them solidify their presence as powerhouses within their field, with talent that will not be fading anytime soon. ‘A Quiet Place to Die’ is not merely one of Alpha Wolf’s finest pieces of work, but is arguably one of the finest releases we have seen throughout what has otherwise been a dreary 2020.

Beginning with the title track ‘A Quiet Place to Die’, the band welcomes us to the album in a haunting and menacing way. Fittingly, this track paves the way for the events, the stories, to follow, and is ultimately a path shrouded by the forces that encompass the album; feelings of negativity, sorry, loss and animosity. Powerfully, ‘A Quiet Place to Die’ summates the album through its brief presence, and is the birthplace of the foundations that make this album all the stronger. As both a title track and introductory track, ‘A Quiet Place to Die’ delivers its purpose with skill and sincerity.

‘Creep’, one of the singles previously released, follows. Both vocally and lyrically, this song is prominent and hard-hitting, exuding the raw anger and animosity alluded to within the title track. Evidently, ‘Creep’ is an anthem for our current times of upheaval, best found in the lyrics, “Suppression sewn shut…Do I make you uncomfortable”. Through the band’s most powerful tool, their music, Alpha Wolf have sparked a discussion revolving around injustice, suppression and the inability to change due to the solace some find in their own worlds of comfort. Truly, the band alludes to topics which spark debate often uncovering feelings of uneasiness, whether these be on a small or large scale. Inarguably representative of these times, ‘Creep’ serves as a reminder to speak over the ‘quiet places’, because it is this noise that creates change, and creeping around in the silence will lead us nowhere. This multifaceted track speaks volumes, not only through its aggression and composition, but its loud and clear statement.

Following is ‘Golden Fate: Isolate’, the third installment to the ‘Golden Fate’ trilogy that commenced in Alpha Wolf’s ‘Mono’ album. Through the vocals of Lochie and the subsequent lyrics, the band present a tragic yet thought-provoking story regarding the repercussions of death and loss. ‘Isolate’ encompasses the inability we hold in processing, expressing and understanding feelings, thoughts, and actions in times of grief. The song continuously presents a shifted perspective, moulding the view to the internal thoughts of the persona; “so where was my goodbye? … you left me behind”. This track presents a shifted perspective of what is usually delved into, and with the raw aggression and pleading in the composition of this song, creates a feeling so uniquely cataclysmic, you are able to touch the surface of the pain and grief discussed. Truly, the band engulfs every word of ‘Isolate’ with emotion, passion and power; factors which drip upon you with every listen.

Since its release, my subsequent four-times-a-day listening, and even surrounded by the company of the album it lurks within, track four, ‘Akudama’ continues to stand out as one of my favourite Alpha Wolf tracks. From the chorus to its unmissable breakdown, this track holds a relentless energy, unmatched by any other. Encompassed by pure energy and chaos, this track finds a way to permeate throughout every fibre of your being, and when the time comes, will be something to behold when live shows roll back around. ‘Akudama’ in all its fierceness leaves a mark not to be forgotten, much like the namesake suggests!

Track five is ‘Acid Romance’. With some big shoes to fill, ‘Acid Romance’ opens the gates from the first seconds with one of the most forceful openings from this album. Continued within the rest of the track, ‘Acid Romance’ prevails as a crushing and dangerous force, very much embodying the nature of its lyrics. Lyrically, the track is poetic and unveils the complexities of human emotion; “Lovers torn asunder/Sleeping beneath a murder of crows/Black as pitch/The rapture since left with you”. Although conveying enough on their own, when intertwined with the brutal force of the instrumentals, the lyrics of ‘Acid Romance’ create something so incredibly unmissable, it begins to replicate the same struggles that arise with such feelings- fragility, brokenness, anguish and frustration. Once again, Alpha Wolf have proven that music goes beyond what is presented, but extends to share the feelings of the story.

‘Rot in Pieces’ follows. Perhaps one of the most emotionally-charged songs, this track is fuelled by anger and hatred, all of which make it a powerful piece. Situated around the centre of the album, Alpha Wolf guarantees that the hype does not fizzle out, and instead culminates some of their largest hostilities to the centre of this body of work. Lyrically, vocally and instrumentally, this track gives everything it can to plead its story, making its impact second to none. ‘Rot in Pieces’ truly makes a statement, and does not merely plead for prominence within the album, but demands it.

One of their most recent and well received singles, ‘bleed 4 you’ is track seven. Featuring Lizi from The Beautiful Monument, this song is beautifully fragile yet heavy in its own magnificent way. Although not adhering to the features found on the rest of the album, ‘bleed 4 you’ is not out of place, but intertwines itself through its enduring emotional impact and precise composition. Hauntingly, this song highlights how we as individuals must endeavour through the plans created for us, the experiences and timing of events we are forced to meet. Fuelled by pleading and longing, the repeated lines of “Im’ going numb, I’ll bleed for you” become excruciating. Certainly emotionally-charged, this song presents something unfamiliar yet fitting. Truly, ‘bleed 4 you’ places an emphasis on Alpha Wolf’s ability to strip back tracks to not only delve into emotion, but remain true to themselves- a true testament to their duality.

‘Ultra-Violet Violence’ is track eight. Much like its counterparts, this track intertwines instrumentals that would be heavenly within a live setting, with lyrics that are emotionally-driven and hold immense importance. This track in particular is perhaps one of the best examples of this seamless intertwinement, showing that no factor outweighs the others, but can simultaneously exist in a song to make a raw and powerful tune that can still stir the room. ‘Ultra-Violent Violence’ is violent and raw, fitting for this emotion-driven album!

‘The Mind Bends to a Will of Its Own’ follows. Truly, the lyrics of this track are something to behold. Through the entirety of this album, I have been in awe of both the complexity and originality of the content of the lyrics, all of which eagerly stray from clichés, and are quick to rely on self expression rather than pleasing the masses. Such a notion does not go astray within this track, and perhaps poses the best example of it. It is elements of their composition, such as the lyrics, that make Alpha Wolf projects not only different, but exemplars within their field. With overflowing emotion, perspective-driven content, trademark instrumentals and unique lyrics, ‘The Mind Bends to a Will of Its Own’ is another prime example for Alpha Wolf’s rising prominence in the scene.

Following is ‘Restricted (R18+), certainly advertised as an adrenaline rush for a seventeen-year-old like myself. One of the heaviest tracks from the album, ‘Restricted’ is more than an angry track, but one of passion and justice, exemplified by the lyrics “Don’t you ever think I would forget, Don’t you ever think I would forgive”. Truly, this track seeks to find solace in a world stained by impurities and the presences of evil, once again sending messages through the most powerful tool- music. ‘Restricted (R18+)’ is a hard-hitting track proving that the tank is nowhere near empty as we begin to reach the end of the album.

Signifying the conclusion of ‘A Quiet Place to Die’ is ‘Don’t Ask…’. Yet another interesting turn for the band, this track presents a far more solemn undertone than its counterparts. Subsequently, it becomes one of the most moving tracks on the album. Surrounding the notions of prevailing over hopelessness, ‘Don’t Ask…’ not only becomes a significant conclusion to the many feelings that were established in the introductory track, but provides a greater moral for listeners. There is an ability to acknowledge and overcome, to deal with demons yet face the world. Through this powerful conclusory track, Alpha Wolf not only quells their own pain, but extends an invitation for others to do the same- to remind everyone, “that one day we will be okay”, a beautiful sentiment to conclude with.

Through their second album, ‘A Quiet Place to Die’, Alpha Wolf have reinforced themselves as a relentless talent to be reckoned with within the scene. Whether it is their beautiful lyrics, versatile range and experimentation, or their raw display of emotion, Alpha Wolf have presented a multi-dimensional body of work that truly exhibits who they are as a band. As a fellow Australian, this makes me extremely excited, but as a music-lover, it fills me with immense joy knowing that the future of such music lies within such capable hands. ‘A Quiet Place to Die’ is a must-listen album; one that is sure to surprise, thrill and engage with you.

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EP REVIEW: Bring Me The Horizon – ‘Post Human: Survival Horror’

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Throughout 2020, the year where all we seemed to love left us, there has certainly been no abandonment from Bring Me The Horizon. The band have been responsible for releasing sporadic pieces of music, each with their own refreshing and inspired flair. To the elation of many of their fans, these powerful singles have culminated to something bigger than anticipated- the release of ‘Post Human: Survival Horror’. As a long-time fan, the path to this dire, apocalypse-driven soundtrack has been a rocky, but one that fosters an incredibly important message. Bring Me The Horizon have, and with the release of ‘Post Human’, continue to amplify that developing through sound, style and composition does not hinder an expression of identity, but allows it to flourish in new and incredible ways. Truly, ‘Post Human: Survival Horror’ is an exceptional display of what is to come, a sincere homage to what has been, and most importantly, an essential page in the story of Bring Me The Horizon.

‘Dear Diary’ is the opening track of ‘Post Human’, and is certainly one of explosive proportions. Channelling the inner rage and annoyance, this track is an encapsulation of feelings and thoughts, set free- unleashed. As far as opening tracks go, ‘Dear Diary’ doesn’t just grab you, but drags you into the ‘Survival Horror’ universe. The fragmentation and scattered aside-like lines are such an integral pillar to this song, adding a depth that is so promising for the album. Personally, my favourite part greets us at the end- the scream into the laugh, perhaps an allusion to the blatant ignorance the world has to the troubles we are surrounded by- the troubles that are soon to be discussed.

Track two revisits one of the four preceding singles, ‘Parasite Eve’. Within the inescapable discussion of the climate and circumstances that surround this year, this track continues to be one of the most profound and impactful COVID anthems. Led by poignant yet brutal instrumentals and haunting vocal features, the song begins to construct the prevailing sense of hopelessness, unknowing, and relentless anxiety that surrounds us in these times. This world-building and reflection of the landscape is a feature that never goes astray within such tracks, (a feature also seen in ‘Ludens’), and in the context of this song, makes it resonate all the more. For the eager ear, ‘Parasite Eve’ holds an unmissable reference to the earlier ‘It Never Ends’ with the line “Don’t call it a warning, this is a war”- one of the many examples where BMTH reference their past, not only sound-wise, but lyrically. It was through this show stopping release that fans were able to fantasize about the industrial and apocalyptic world the band may delve into, and with the release of ‘Survival Horror’ upon us, it is evident that this brief glimpse given by ‘Parasite Eve’ was only a small, but powerful, taste of what was to come.

The most recent single, ‘Teardrops’ follows. Speckles of every album permeate through this track, creating a project that is nostalgic, yet exciting. Further to this, it becomes yet another one of the band’s hybrid and dynamic tracks, showcasing the best of Oli’s vocals and screams, and the way in which the band constructs the shifting foundations to cater for such dramatic changes in the song. With lyrical content discussing the inevitable desensitization of a world that has endured catastrophe and vast distressing events, it was essential for this track to be vulnerable and dire. Through these dramatic tonal shifts, and a genuine belief in what they are singing for, ‘Teardrops’ is not only vulnerable, but extends its hand out to the listener, pleading for a change, an answer. It is through these impactful tracks that ‘Post Human: Survival Horror’ not only resonates, but has a place in our current society.

The fourth track introduces the first of many collaborations, this one being ‘Obey’ featuring Yungblud! As a fan of both artists, it is safe to say I was apprehensive considering their at times contrasting styles. However, both artists have never been afraid to speak from their minds in a way that is true to themselves. Upon first listen, this apprehension was crushed, not only by the effortless delivery of a flawless collaboration, but from the brutal nature of the song itself. Truly, I believe this track instilled some belief that elements of the brutal Bring Me many love may appear. I think the most impressive element of this track is that both artists have merged into a similar style, whilst still maintaining their own- something that has created a beautifully dynamic track. This collaboration holds no weakness, proving that often a little outside touch can do so much to amplify the power and message of a song.

‘Itch For The Cure’ follows, and provides a temporary cooldown from the powerful collab that came before. However, the track also nods to the next collab! A small, sharp and sinister track, ‘Itch For The Cure’ is filled with energy, vibrancy, and is uplifted by its beat and instrumentals. Effortlessly, the band intertwines a sense of hope, or perhaps masked ignorance, within their created world, engulfed in human suffering and chaos. This track comfortably sits amongst its peers and is certainly not overshadowed by the heavier or more brutal songs surrounding, but stands its ground as a necessary track.

‘Kingslayer’ is next, and as I am typing this, I am still at a loss for words. I anticipated this track immensely, knowing that both Bring Me The Horizon and Babymetal have brought their talents and gifts to the table on multiple occasions, knowing that together, something beautiful would likely be created. With the return of some guttural screams and powerful instrumentals from the Bring Me boys, accompanied by the ferocious and fierce gifts of Babymetal, an incredible juxtaposition of sounds and styles has morphed into a track of sheer excellence. Beyond the aesthetic and auditory excellence, the lyrics continue to spread a message of warning with a dire tone; “You’re a puppet, when they cut your strings off, Don’t come crawling back”. It is this blatant and brutal dishing of the harsh realities we face ourselves in that make this album such a key body of work for our current environment- sending essential messages of freedom against a permeating sense of suppression, controlling one’s own decisions, and most importantly, paving the world through one’s own lens. ‘Kingslayer’ is easily my favourite track from this body of work, and presents itself as a powerful reminder that sometimes the best creations arise from the least expected partnerships.

‘1×1’ presents another collaboration, this time, the Nova Twins. At such a late stage in the album, it would seem almost impossible to introduce a feeling so new to the body of work. Yet, this track does exactly that. There is something so incredibly confronting yet inviting- a feeling brought upon by such crisp and attitude-amplified vocal performances. In a refreshing way, ‘1×1’ exaggerates the vocal performance, which perfectly articulates the true skill in which both parties hold in conveying their thoughts, feelings and sound through their voice. Truly, ‘1×1’ presents a beauty through vulnerability, an element fostered throughout every line of this track, making it a powerful and hard hitting song.

Acting as our earliest taste of ‘Post Human’ was Ludens. Emerging from the Death Stranding soundtrack, many thought it was evidently moulded to the game. However, its discussion of the ignorance of leaders, and the destructive nature individuals hold to the world surrounding extend far beyond the sphere of the game, but into our own realm. In a greater sense, Ludens not only introduced, but in the context of the full album, amplifies the mission of such a brutal and morally charged album; to lead a discussion of our present into the future. The composition of this track was also something to behold, with its breakdown leaving fans salivating over the thought of something so gnarly and gritty coming from the band at such a time. The perfect mix of fragility and brutality, ‘Ludens’ perfectly juxtaposes its elements to make an anthem for uprising- one that does not get lost among the newer tracks upon this album.

The final track of ‘Post Human: Survival Horror’ is ‘One Day The Only Butterflies Left Will Be In Your Chest As You March Towards Your Death’, and features Amy Lee of Evanescence. There is nothing that can truly encapsulate this track besides the fact it is hauntingly beautiful. Amy Lee brings a sombre and emotional performance; one that only solidifies her years as the figure-head for alternative music. This same energy is matched by Oli, showing off one of his most raw and emotive performances to date. As the track progresses, the weight upon your chest begins to get heavier. The silent screams toward the end deliver a menacing and intimidating touch, giving birth to a suspense that wanders off the edge of the album. Perhaps the best way to describe the feeling this track incites can be reflected through the feeling of watching a horror film; a building sense of intimidation and suspense, creating a heavy but anticipating feeling. When this suspense fizzles out with nothing eventuating, one cannot help but wanting more… and I find myself in such a position.

‘Post Human: Survival Horror’ is an incredible album that crawls into every crevice of the Bring Me The Horizon pit- uncovering skills, emotions, morals and messages learnt upon their extensive journey. It is through the acknowledgment of the past, and a direction for the future that Bring Me The Horizon have created an album essential for our present. This album encapsulates many unexpected twists and turns, and amplifies some of the most powerful artists of our scene today. Truly, ‘Post Human’ is a celebration of what lingers among us, and the power these voices have to lead us into a future, hopefully not reflective of the apocalyptic, post-human kind!

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Patient Sixty-Seven Release Reimagined Single Featuring Kellin Quinn

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Perth metalcore outfit Patient Sixty-Seven are no strangers to the scene, leaving a permanent mark with their EP ‘Home Truths’ earlier this year.

After recently signing to InVogue Records, the stakes have never been higher for the Australian band, but so too have the opportunities risen.

By the power of their passion, dedication, and will, Patient Sixty-Seven have tackled any doubts with the release of their most recent single, a reimagined take of their incredible anthem, ‘Where to From Here’.

This revisited take acquired the help of legendary Kellin Quinn, who with the guidance of vocalist Tom, weaves a sound trademark to the band, but with a fresh and exciting twist.

The reimagined version has seen Patient Sixty-Seven create something hauntingly beautiful, allowing the track to blossom into its final form.

‘Where to From Here’ is both comforting and confronting, and is drowning in emotion and sincerity.

We cannot wait to see what is next, as this single points only to a promising future for the band.

Check out the track below and let us know what you think!

what's happening with Album reviews 2020

Album Review: Yungblud – ‘Weird!’

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In the at times dull and dreary climate of 2020, there is no more suitable salvation than the bundle of energy, joy and hope that is Yungblud. Despite the outward persona of positivity and persistence, through his bounds of outspoken and moral driven music, we have come to know Yungblud as a voice for the youth, and the leader of a revolution. This energy continues to permeate through ‘weird!’, an album that celebrates community, connection, and the control we place upon our own futures. Throughout the journey of this album, so too is the listener taken on a journey of self-discovery, expression and individualism; a celebration of all the things we should embrace in order to face the world head-on. ‘weird!’ is not only an essential album for 2020, but is an album that embraces the unification of all; a necessary soundtrack to our changing future.

‘teresa’ marks the beginning of the album, in both a sombre and powerful manner. Anthemic and explosive, this song is made raw by Yungblud’s pleading vocals, some of which are powerfully dire, others which come in almost silent whispers that creep into every fibre of your being. As an opening track, ‘teresa’ is a haunting tune that, much like its lyrical content, consumes you and lurks with you, dragging the listener into the rest of the ‘weird!’ story.

In a year bombarded with isolation and incubation from anyone and anything, ‘Cotton Candy’ takes the form of an expressive anthem that reminds us of the fragments of human emotion and connection we have left, and the importance of being with one another. This track is undeniably catchy with a mellow and inviting beat- its summoning lyrics an invite for all to join in the message of this song. Its warmth and positive radiance begin to establish the connection the lyrics promote, making ‘Cotton Candy’ both true to form, and itself. Undeniably, Yungblud has created a song that not only promotes the unification of the whole, but permeates the feelings of love, individualism and being throughout your entire soul.

‘Strawberry Lipstick’ was revealed at the dawn of the new era- its teasing and promotion signalling a new beginning for Yungblud and fans alike. So too, this notion carried forward to the composition of this song- a track that channels abrupt and nostalgic punk noise, derived from the very roots of the local punk scene. Forceful in its ways, ‘Strawberry Lipstick’ became an intrusive but exciting earworm for what was to come. Today, as the album is out, it continues to be a foundational piece to the album as a whole, solidifying both the importance of experimentation and expression in such an album. This track continues to showcase the musical diversity of Yungblud as an artist, and his ability to find a comfort in expression within all musical vessels; an essential task when spreading such important universal messages.

‘mars’, is a much loved single from ‘weird!’, and continues to be one of the most emotionally charged songs from the album. In fact, it is songs, such as ‘mars’, that define ‘weird!’ as an album for the community. In my own eyes, much as the cover suggests, this album finds a way to touch all individuals from an array of different paths, all to unify them at the final destination- a destination of happiness, solace, freedom of expression, and hope for the future. In a raw way, Yungblud uses his voice to carve this anthem of acceptance into the minds of those listening; “All this therapy eats away gently at the side of her mind that she never had”. True to form, Yungblud continues to use his platform to incite change, and challenge the crippling obscenities still occurring to individuals around the world. ‘mars’ is yet another song that contributes to Yungblud’s mark upon the youth and his status as both a leader and role model, expressing how easily we can begin to call out the injustices many people face on a daily basis within mainstream media.

‘superdeadfriend’ follows, but branches upon a completely different path to its counterparts. This track is expressive and knows no bounds, allowing for not only a more electronically driven beat, but experimentation vocally with a robust rap-like sequence. This burst of non-stop energy is a standout piece of experimentation gone well, further proving that music, messages and morals hold no bounds, and the pillars of communication are limitless through sound. ‘superdeadfriend’ is both a catchy and eye-opening piece within this body of work.

Next is ‘love song’. This heart wrenching track is overwhelmed with emotion that not only spills, but drenches the listener. Every inch of meaning, feeling and emotion permeates through this track creating such an unmissable connection through the song we have been presented. It is through such strong connections that Yungblud has continuously spread messages, and connected with others to create a community of understanding and unity. ‘love song’ proves to be no different, with its sheer presence leaving such a strong and lingering mark after every listen. It is truly a masterpiece.

‘god save me, but don’t drown me out’, the third single from the album, is a raw and emotive track that fortifies itself with feelings of struggle, hopelessness and pain, only to crumble the walls through prevailing senses of joy and hope. Through the span of this almost four minute track, we are able to see a story being told, spanning from dark points; “ my shoulders weigh more than I can take”, to moments where we see the persona take control back; “won’t let my insecurities define who I am”. Through juxtaposing lyrics and themes, accompanied by the development of the persona in the track, we are able to view a story of hope, aspiration, and navigation toward a better future. It is tracks like these that aid us in these troubling times, allowing us to recognise the hope that could lie ahead. Through ‘god save me, but don’t drown me out’, Yungblud reminds us that the first step to a better future is initiated within finding ourselves.

After much anticipation, ‘ice cream man’ has finally weaselled its way into the world, and on the track list of ‘weird!’. Masked as a light-hearted and bubbly tune, ‘ice cream man’ is subtly a song of immense relatability, delving into the worlds of self-doubt, exclusion, and questioning of self-worth. ‘ice cream man’ is a non-intrusive exploration of our inner selves, and the capability we hold to destroy our own aspirations and goals through negative thought and individual action. The way in which this song so softly tackles such an immensely universal topic should be applauded, not only as it creates a song that is easy to listen to, but paints the task of evaluating our inner self much less confronting. The wait for ‘ice cream man’ was well worth it, and it has easily grasped onto its preceding reputation.

‘weird!’, or better yet, the title track, had some incredible shoes to fill. But, since its release and to this day, ‘weird!’ continues to be something I can only describe as a beautiful song. It is both sombre and upbeat, sad but hopeful. The softened vocals of Yungblud, intertwined with a simple beat that allows the lyrics to shine creates a feeling so magical that never fails to attend each listen. It is easy for such tracks to be donned as corona anthems that showcase the hardships of our year, but ‘weird!’ had, and continues to have so much more potential, presenting itself as a song of survival, understanding and perseverance. Upon what would be one of my listens within the triple figures, this song continues to fill me with joy, and is a sure standout from the album.

‘charity’ is next and from its first listen, it quickly became a personal favourite. This track is drowning in so many lovable features, from its talking/aside like verses, to its nostalgic essence within the instrumentals, there is something so comforting and personal about this song. Much like ‘strawberry lipstick’, ‘charity’ bursts from the roots of formerly laid punk foundations, which account for this track’s new yet familiar feel! Both upbeat and quirky, this song does something different and unique, which ultimately makes it such an inviting and exciting track.

‘acting like that’, the most recently released single, acquires the help of the converted pop-punk icon, Machine Gun Kelly. The chemistry and intertwinement of both MGK and Yungblud inserts such an energy into this track- a feeling which is aided by its unmistakably pop-punk beat. The simple chorus is an unforgettable feature… (and I mean unforgettable) that becomes an engraved reminder within one’s brain of this incredible pop-punk anthem. We have seen these two acts take the stage together before, but ‘acting like that’ takes the pairs’ explosive and contagious energy to new heights. It was a pleasure to see both of them create something so true to themselves yet again.

The next track is ‘it’s quiet in beverly hills’. Toned down from the previous track, ‘beverly hills’ takes a more sombre approach, which places such a large emphasis upon its lyrical content- lyrics that account for just how beautiful this song truly is. In particular the line, “I’ll love you all of my life, all of my life/Until you close your eyes for good” continued to resonate with me. These lyrics are located within the chorus, meaning they are repeated frequently. Such a passionate and promising line, repeated as though ensuring the promise is kept, assists in building up the loyalty and tone this song wishes to portray. Ultimately, this song has accumulated to something beautiful, built from piles of love, dedication, and sincerity, making this song all the more emotional. Cue the tissues for this one.

The final track from ‘weird!’ is ‘the freak show’. From its beginning to its end, this track is like an album in itself. Through every tone turn, tempo change, vocal manipulation and perfect confusion, ‘the freak show’ is not merely a song, but a multi-dimensional final exploration of the world of ‘weird!’. As a closing track, it is a show stopping piece of art that displays all that has been, and all you can immerse yourself into again (you just have to press play again)! Most importantly, ‘the freak show’ acts as a powerful reminder to the messages and morals of this album in itself, brilliantly alluded to in its final lines; “so welcome to the freak show
I hope that you find yourself today”. Truly, ‘the freak show’ not only closes ‘weird!’ but encapsulates it as an album of self-exploration, discovery, and unity among all.

Through ‘weird!’, Yungblud has yet again created a scene, an environment, that fosters growth, individuality, freedom and expression. The tracks within become anthems to the changing nature of acceptance and commonality, whilst also promoting the beauty of uniqueness. With many musical twists and turns, as well as the exhibition of many vocal feats, Yungblud has created an album with substance- substance that is delivered through beautifully composed tracks. The emotion, energy and passion upon this album is second to none, which not only engage, but elaborate upon the unifying nature of this soundtrack for the future. ‘weird!’ is an unmissable album.

Check out the album below and let us know your thoughts!

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Patient Sixty-Seven Release New Single

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2021 has already cemented itself as a year set to ignite the creative fuel of many of our favourite bands. As we await the onslaught of new projects, some bands are already daring to step into this unknown ground, releasing work that is set to define the standards of this year’s new music. There is perhaps no greater example of such a feat than Perth metalcore outfit, Patient Sixty-Seven.

After rounding off last year with a haunting and heart-wrenching reimagined single, the band is back to launch themselves into the 2021 state of mind. The new single, ‘Antithesis’, is an emotionally charged anthem; trademark of Patient Sixty-Seven and the genuine connection we see poured into their music time and time again.

As Tom explains, the track “signifies the difficulty of having someone you care for deeply go through a battle of addiction and trauma”. The essence of ‘Antithesis’ truly encapsulates such a gruelling circumstance, and intertwines a multidimensional musical approach which never fails to represent the cycle, and the feelings of pain, longing and despair. Integral to this representation was the band’s partnership with Rory Rodriguez of Dayseeker- a partnership that sees two varying sounds collide and intertwine for a raw and genuine expression of vulnerability.

The band’s collaboration in ‘Antithesis’ not only assists in constructing an audible representation of the confusion and confronting thoughts endured through such relationships, but aims to once again promote Patient Sixty-Seven’s ability to deconstruct the parameters set upon them in order to create something new, and true to their own musical identity. From the past acoustic covers, to such intriguing collaborations, the band’s willingness to push the boundaries is evident- which only amplifies their genuine connection to the music they create.

‘Antithesis’ is a raw journey that places the listener into a world beyond their own; one of deep feeling, heart-wrenching vulnerability, and immense passion. Truly, it fulfils the band’s wishes to be “a heartfelt song that people can connect with”.

This track has set an exemplary standard for what is yet to come for Patient Sixty-Seven, and the many exciting releases that have been promised for the rest of this year. ‘Antithesis’ featuring Rory Rodriguez is out now! Let us know your thoughts, and keep watching for Patient Sixty-Seven’s next move!