The Future back in 2018, but From Ashes To New just seem to hover under my radar. Which is a shame as this is a damn fine release.
Whereas The Future acted as a sequel to their 2016 debut Day One, Blackout is a prequel. Written during 2020 and “that time”, it has a pre-apocalyptic feel to it. So don’t expect much in the way of cheery lyrics and bouncy pop-punk feels. Instead, the band meld electronic beats, rap and hard rock / metal sounds in a style that reminds me of Papa Roach but with heavier drops. More nu-rock than nu-metal, it’s sneakily easy to listen to then hits you with a blasting, abrasive chorus. “Hope You’re Happy”… oof.
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By its nature it’s a heavily produced album. It needs to be with all the layers and sounds. Straight away this will mean that Blackout, and the band as a whole, is written off by “purists” which is a shame as it’s twelve tracks of catchy singalong belters. Some songs are “rap with rock” (opener “Heartache” a prime example, as is “Monster In Me”), others are more “rock with rap” (the moderately gentle “Barely Breathing” and the rousing “Hate Me Too”).
Taking a step back to their sound from their first album isn’t going to garner From Ashes To New any new fans from those who’ve already heard them and decided their sound isn’t for them. However, for those who have enjoyed their three releases to date this is a very worthy successor (or pre-cessor?). Hugely enjoyable and on a rotation in my house at the moment!
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Blackout is out on July 28th
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