With the weather still leaving us cold and wet, at least February through us some banging albums, not least Modern Baseball and The Hotelier’s new releases. It also saw some new music by The Menzingers, My Chemical Romance and Brighton melodic hardcore veterans Architects. This month Mark, our Visual Media Editor, even stepped away from our usual genres for his pick. See what you make of it.
The Menzingers – ‘In Remission’
They’re back! The Menzingers were the owners of Punktastic’s album of 2012 with ‘On The Impossible Past’, and ‘Rented World’ looks like being just as great based on the evidence of ‘In Remission’. Between the massive lead riff and the chorus’ “Maybe the future’s just a little bit weird” line, we’re sold. Great stuff. [Tom Aylott]
Architects – ‘Broken Cross’
Following the excellent ‘Naysayer’ comes ‘Broken Cross’, the second single taken from Architects’ forthcoming album ‘Lost Forever // Lost Together’ (which is unbelievably brilliant, so prepare yourself). They really have outdone themselves with this one. Also, there’s probably nothing more satisfying than shouting along with that ‘BLEH’ noise they do. Incredible. [Lais MW]
The Gaslight Anthem – ‘Tumbling Dice’
Okay okay, I know Gaslight Anthem’s ‘B-sides’ came out last month, and the track may not exactly be new, but there was a new album, and the album didn’t hit the shelves in time for our January playlist so here it is. The track was written by The Rolling Stones but I can’t help feel that Brian Fallon’s tone makes this stripped back cover even better than the original. Definitely my favourite on the album. [David Burd]
Bayside – ‘Time Has Come’
While perhaps not as instant as ‘Pigsty’, after a couple of listens this becomes yet another of the earworms for which Anthony Raneri and co have become known. Even if this track represents an ‘average’ cut from forthcoming album ‘Cult’, we’re all in for a hell of a treat. [Rob Barbour]
Modern Baseball – ‘Your Graduation’
Clever lyrics, catchy tunes and an album full of singalongs, the new Modern Baseball album is going to be in many a top 10 come the end of the year. Your Graduation stands out though as it’s emotional, angry and the vocal change in it is sort of perfection. Who knew such a bitter song could make you want to dance so much? [Maryam Hassan]
Decade – ‘Good Luck’
The title track from the Bath pop-punker’s debut release does wonders for first impressions. A catchy riff, an absolute belter of a chorus and a bridge that’s sure to you have you in the front row with one hand on your heart and the other in the air. Roll on the May tour. [Charlie Mock]
The Hotelier – ‘The Scope Of All This Rebuilding’
The new Hotelier album was a Valentine’s Day gift from the band to those who pre-ordered it, and so far this is my favourite track off the record. This song is downright addictive, and the album is really solid. Made my Valentine’s Day. [Sam Kanal]
My Chemical Romance – ‘Fake Your Death’
After announcing last year that they were calling it a day, My Chemical Romance presented this track to punctuate their 12 year lifespan. ‘Fake Your Death appears on their ‘Greatest Hits’ release, referenced in a nostalgic montage trailer which is sure to make long-time fans smile. The song features Gerard’s vocals sounding sweeter than ever and gives you a sense of the hopeful, grateful and positive manner in which the band decided to say goodbye. [James Fox]
Frameworks – ‘Loom’
With the same producer behind the helm who brought us last year’s exceptional Deafheaven record, Frameworks newest track ‘Loom’ bares a few similarities in its understated brutality. It’s fast and largely nonsensical, yet the airy guitar plucking opens the heavy riffs and imposing sluggish drumming. ‘Loom’ is screamo for a new generation, and a promising sign of things to come from the full-length of the same name at the end of April. [Ben Tipple]
Chromeo – ‘Come Alive (feat. Toro y Moi)’
From my most anticipated (non-Punk) release this year comes another slab of electro/disco funk brilliance from Chromeo. They seem to have a knack for making the most catchy 70’s throwback disco songs, yet still make it fresh for absolutely anyone to enjoy. Can’t wait to see these guys live later this year. [Mark Gadong]