Beloved Boston based alt-rockers Dead Poet Society are back to present us with a brand-new album entitled Fission. The thirteen-track album takes us on a trip to a world of edgy guitars, upbeat drums and fascinating lyrics.
Having already released six of the tracks prior, fans got a real sense of what to expect and what to maybe be surprised by. To name a few being ‘Running in Circles,’ ‘Hurt’ and ‘How Could I Love you?’ With these three carrying a similar melodic point of view you start to see the story form. Stunning us with intense guitar riffs and powerful inputs from drummer Will Goodroad, I found myself quite happily lost within it all. Hitting us with tales of their times through engaging and incredible storytelling lyrics. Moving on over to tracks such as ‘81 Tonnes’ and ‘I hope you hate me.’ Both starting off a little slower and along the quieter melodic lines before increasing in excitement and energy into their respective choruses.
Advancing on into songs entitled ‘LA Queen,’ ‘KOET,’ and ‘Tipping Point.’ Gifting us with hard hitting vocals, quirky electronic elements and vibrant instrumental moments that leave you in awe and wishing for more. Keeping us all interacting and interested in each song eager to learn what comes next.
Track nine ‘Hard to be God’ grabbed my attention just seconds into it starting. Presenting us with a slightly different vocal pattern to previous tracks played I couldn’t help but be quite intrigued to where it was heading. With a continuous beat throughout and a talkative style of lyrics, it’s hard to ignore or dislike this section of the album.
Taking a moment to share my appreciation for track 11 ‘My Condition.’ Upon first listening to this track, it immediately joined my top three. I think many will find themselves resonating with these lyrics and the songs internal meaning. With vocalist Jack Underkofler speaking of the difficult time in which it was written. Discussing the breakdown of a relationship as well as personal issues alongside a pandemic, something many know all too well. I can imagine this track doing incredibly well in front of a live audience, creating a great opportunity for fan to artist connection. Bringing a choir-like chorus and a sense of unity, it’s hard not to appreciate the talent on display.
Ending on ‘Black and Gold’ was an efficient choice to close out the album on. Giving the vocals a spotlight and performing with a real sense of urgency it gives off the atmosphere of panic. Perhaps a struggle to say everything needed before the album closes out to an end. It’s rigid and sharp keeping us engaged and on the edge of our seats.
The four piece is set to head out on an UK/Europe tour this February – March. Make sure to grab yourselves tickets to limit the chance of missing out on what’s sure to be a night filled with mosh pits, music and madness.
Dead Poet Society: Fission – Out 26th January 2024 (Spinefarm)
Poet Society – My Condition (youtube.com)
