SDR start as they mean to go on, with their opening track “Origins” setting the staple of the band’s heavy and hard-hitting sound. For fans of bands such as Foo Fighters and Smashing Pumpkins, certainly follow with the same energy and raw passion for music itself. With the lyrics “This is where we come from” echoing throughout the chorus, the band show how they can instantly hook the listener in, showcasing their notable experience with songwriting.
The next track “Dark” is the first instance to show the full capabilities of lead guitarist Jamie Turnbull, (who also produced and mixed the album at Post Electric Studios). Clearly experienced in his craft, the guitar ties together what is a well-thought-out song, also first showing the band use quieter verses to emphasise a heavy chorus, which they often use throughout the remainder of the album.
For me, “Little Things” (previously released as a single) and “Individuality” are the standout songs for the album, especially with how they both complement each other and flow into one another. With memorable guitar riffs and clever structuring that seem too rare within the current industry these days, both songs show the experience and class that lies in SDR. As well, these both show the quality of the lead singer John Keenan’s voice. He’s able to powerfully hook you within the choruses while providing a much-needed smoother touch when needed in softer areas. “Mantle” (another single) expresses this versatility within his voice, whilst also showing a slightly more mature side of the band.
Followed up by their final released single “Melanin“, the band re-encapsulates their heavy sound that follows suit for the rest of the album. Other stand-out tracks include “Weaponised“, which I think has a slightly darker sound to it with the diversity posing as an interesting switch as well as a pointer to the capabilities of the bands creativity. The drums and guitar work really well together on this track, but I think their closing track “Canon Law” is really what sets their lead guitarist Jamie Turnbull apart, showing how he is much more than someone to just endlessly shred mind numbing solos, but puts a lot of thought and care into an instrument he is clearly proud of.
Overall, I think the album has a really strong and powerful sound resonating with it, but I do think this takes a lot of the focus off the lyricism in the album making it a lot harder to fully grasp and appreciate. With many of the songs focusing on topics the band want you to listen closely to, I think there are areas of the album where more emphasis and focus could be put into the lyrics, rather than continuing to hammer the nail of their notably “powerful” sound.
Yet this album is clearly made by musicians who know what they’re doing and are not new to creating solid tracks. It will be interesting to see what the album manages to accomplish in the current world of “social media music”, but I’ll definitely keep an eye out.
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