ALBUM REVIEW: Do You Feel O.K? – Picturesque
Some say that the labels of genre are limiting. They can restrict an artist or band to only produce a certain sound, as to make sure they fit the genre they have been allocated. Kentucky natives PICTURESQUE however, are joining the group of artists and bands who refuse to let a label define them, and have chosen to produce music that feels right, rather than checking boxes of genre conventions. Originating from a post-hardcore scene, the five-piece set out to embrace musical tropes not usually associated with heavy music, and their new release, Do You Feel O.K?, definitely does this vision justice.
Having released their first album, Back To Beautiful, in 2017 and receiving a good reception, the band has gone on to tour with the likes of ESCAPE THE FATE, SILVERSTEIN and TONIGHT ALIVE. Band vocalist, Kyle Hollis, has said, “The first record was our take on 2009 post-hardcore, whereas this album is something new, and it’s a style of music I’ve not heard anyone else make.” The opening track, Necessary, really introduces the concept that the band is trying to convey, by mixing a steady electronic beat with impressive vocals from Hollis, then transitioning into deep guitar and bass riffs with a really cool hook and chorus. There are elements of many genres in this song (and the whole album), and it they are very skilfully mixed together.
The next track, ATTN:, launches you straight into the action, by dropping into a groovy riff partnered with catchy drum beats. We then lead onto a once again impressive vocal display, encompassed within guitar and bass riffs which create depth and atmosphere. What really makes this song memorable however, is the super cool synth breakdown and guitar solo. This original element paired with the snappy chorus makes for a great song.
This album makes a habit of including incredibly memorable choruses and hooks, leaving you singing them to yourself hours after actually having listened to them. The track, Crimes, leaves a lasting impression due to its use of vocals and rhythms as they work together to create a truly awesome beat during the chorus. The guitar and bass work great with the synth/electronic high notes during the chorus, adding to the memorable aspect of this song. Nearing the end of the song, Hollis displays his talent with an incredible high note which will ensure this track becomes a fan favourite.
By mixing rock and pop sounds with electro and hip-hop, PICTURESQUE definitely highlight themselves from other bands around at the moment, as every song on this album stands out on its own, but also works amazingly as a collective. Their post-hardcore roots still shine through in the guitars from Dylan Forrester and Zach Williamson and bass from Jordan Greenway, which work incredibly well to create an immersive listening experience.
The track, Holding Me Down, is such an emotive piece, demonstrating perfectly the feelings that Hollis has said inspired the album. It tells the story of a man “taking stock and questioning what is to come next from life”, as the lyrics speak of “emotional despair and romantic despondency”. This track starts off softly with an almost mystical sound, but this quickly transitions into a harder, more impactful sound. You are able to truly feel the pain throughout this song, and the chorus, again, is so strong! This band conveys passion so well through all elements, from the heartfelt lyrics to the powerful drums from Jade Castello.
Overall, Do You Feel O.K? is fully loaded with insanely catchy choruses and hooks, backed with fierce guitars and bass, and compelling drums and beats. The mixing of different genres to create their own new thing has worked really well for PICTURESQUE, resulting in an enjoyable album that you will want to listen to indefinitely.
Rating: 9/10
Do You Feel O.K? is set for release April 24th via Rude Records/Equal Vision Records.
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