EP REVIEW: coming of (r)age – As Sirens Fall
Have you ever wondered what the lovechild of CREEPER and MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE – specifically Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge era – would sound like? Then allow us to introduce you to the northern quartet AS SIRENS FALL; lyrical angst, melancholic soundscapes and energetic grooves culminate to create their brand of aggressive pop. This year saw them open for the likes of AS EVERYTHING FALLS and VUKOVI – it’s no surprise really with a band whose message matches their music: be yourself loudly, proudly and comfortably.
Opening track cult introduces the crisp bright sound of a piano with fragments of Bryan Adams scattered in the melody and tone of its intro that rapidly picks up during the chorus. There’s a melancholic layer hidden underneath the lyrics of acceptance as Mikey Lord belts out “let’s just be miserable, at least we’re genuine in the cult of the unlovable”. This song does wonders showcasing the vocal range Lord has, from the softer, mellow verses to the desperate, soaring choruses.
Boywhatever however, is the kind of track that wants to put the spotlight on the message of toxic masculinity, driven by the lively spirit of the synths and drums. Taking a sudden 180 turn, the band propel into a 3/4 rhythm creating a jarring effect as we proceed – there’s even the added use of an accordion – and gradually this perks back up into the song’s final chorus. From there we’re met with the title track which initially sounds like something Travis Barker produced incorporating trap drums and a clean reverb drenched guitar but this soon changes when the chorus kicks in full of energy and captivating vocal melodies that will undoubtedly have a great reaction in a live setting.
If you’re seeking an anthem for the dark circled, caffeinated emos who are sick of this harsh world but need a way to express themselves in a therapeutic manner, a way to feel through these emotions, then Dynamite answers your prayers. Between the ghostly placement of ‘la‘s in the verse to create a sense of insanity, Bailey Roper’s fast-paced, compelling drums and the instantly captivating guitar work of Adam Dovestone, the track creates a cacophony of sound textures that drive the in-your-face attitude this song presents from the get go.
Bringing back the edge that all our little black hearts desperately desire we close the book on this chapter with heaven (spat us back out) that carries notes of MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE influence. The second verse sticks out the most as the guitars express an eerie Helena-esque feel with Lord‘s vocals reminiscent of Gerard Way circa 2005. The use of orchestral and synth influences leading into the last chorus creates this feeling of acceptance where sparks of desperation and yearning had once been.
From start to finish AS SIRENS FALL have adopted a sound that fits their style, personality and message. They speak for the underdogs, giving them a voice but more importantly a home to express themselves. coming of (r)age takes various influences from other artists while adding the band’s own flair and mixing in sounds to make it fresh and unique from what is already out there.
Rating: 8/10
coming of (r)age is out now via self-release.
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