Brand New review
Following a three year hiatus, Brand New have ended their self-emposed exodus with a triumphant return in The Devil and God Are Raging Inside of Me. Previously criticized by some for writing modest pop-rock and an over abundance of Smiths references, the band has grown musically, adding a slew of interesting additions to their instrumental ensemble. Jesse Lacey (lead singer) molds the album with beautifully crafted lyrics that touch upon life, death and religion including a strong allusion to Kipling's Jungle Book.
The band's radio single, Sowing Season (Yeah) opens the record with Lacey's gentle harmonies over a single guitar. Slowly the song builds towards the bridge, then as the chorus hits, the song explodes as Lacey screams "Yeah!". It's a strong formula for the Long Island quartet. The riffs are catchy, the hooks impenetrable.
Other standout tracks include Jesus Christ where Lacey's coy tongue riddles off questions of life and death. The song is a strong exhibition of Brand New's maturity during the past 3 years. It's hard to believe this is the same band that churned out the teen-angst inspired Your Favorite Weapon. Sweeping guitars decorate lines like "Jesus Christ, I'm alone again. So what did you do those three days you were dead? 'Cause this problem's gonna last more than the weekend."
You Won't Know features a string section, a surprising but welcomed addition to the line up. The riff, reminiscent of the Requiem For a Dream score, leads into a powerful and abrupt chorus. Brian Lane's drumming is fierce, perpetuating Lacey's chants. As the ferocity grows, all becomes quiet and we are left with the single string riff.
Overall, previous fans of Brand New will be pleasantly surprised with their latest offering . The band has managed to reshape themselves creatively while remaining true to the dyanmic which brought them such underground sucess. New listeners will find a band ready to experiment and prepared to deliver. This might not be the album that breaks the Soundscan charts, but Brand New have managed to put together a gripping, elegant collection of songs.
The band's radio single, Sowing Season (Yeah) opens the record with Lacey's gentle harmonies over a single guitar. Slowly the song builds towards the bridge, then as the chorus hits, the song explodes as Lacey screams "Yeah!". It's a strong formula for the Long Island quartet. The riffs are catchy, the hooks impenetrable.
Other standout tracks include Jesus Christ where Lacey's coy tongue riddles off questions of life and death. The song is a strong exhibition of Brand New's maturity during the past 3 years. It's hard to believe this is the same band that churned out the teen-angst inspired Your Favorite Weapon. Sweeping guitars decorate lines like "Jesus Christ, I'm alone again. So what did you do those three days you were dead? 'Cause this problem's gonna last more than the weekend."
You Won't Know features a string section, a surprising but welcomed addition to the line up. The riff, reminiscent of the Requiem For a Dream score, leads into a powerful and abrupt chorus. Brian Lane's drumming is fierce, perpetuating Lacey's chants. As the ferocity grows, all becomes quiet and we are left with the single string riff.
Overall, previous fans of Brand New will be pleasantly surprised with their latest offering . The band has managed to reshape themselves creatively while remaining true to the dyanmic which brought them such underground sucess. New listeners will find a band ready to experiment and prepared to deliver. This might not be the album that breaks the Soundscan charts, but Brand New have managed to put together a gripping, elegant collection of songs.