Jade’s Favorite Album of 2024 Review: Half Living Things / Alpha Wolf
As the year comes to a close, it’s once again time to reflect on the past year. In this article, we will be taking a look at Alpha Wolf’s premium album Half Living Things, talking about the band itself, how the album came to completion, and how I relate certain songs from it to my own life.
Alpha Wolf is an Australian metalcore band that was originally founded in 2013 by bassist and vocalist John Arnold in Burnie, Tasmania, but now resides in Melbourne, Victoria. John stated in earlier interviews that the band’s name came about after watching the movie The Grey featuring Liam Neeson. Even though their first EP, Origin, was released in 2014, the release of their album Mono in 2017 is what gave the band their running start, getting them to number 29 on the ARIA Albums Chart. In early 2018 the band went through some member changes and come June 2018 lead vocalist Lochie Keogh and award-winning drummer Mitch Fogarty were being officially welcomed into the Alpha Wolf pack. Following the member changes and additions, Alpha Wolf released their EP Fault in 2019 followed by their album A Quiet Place to Die in September of 2020. A Quiet Place To Die is numerically where the band hit it big with fans. Hits like “Akudama,” “Creep,” and “Bleed 4 You” preceded the album and were tracks that really pulled people in with their heavy breakdowns and high energy charisma that IS Alpha Wolf.
And with that being said, it brings us to the 2024 album Half Living Things. The album starts off heavy with track one, Bring Back The Noise. The song has the unique Alpha Wolf feel with the lyrics to match. My first time hearing it I immediately connected with the lines, “Am I too loud? Am I too much? Am I too loud? I don’t give a fuck,” because, for me, growing up I was, more than once, told by school staff that I was too vocal about my opinions for a young woman. So, I was seen as being “too much.” But I never cared because doing the right thing was always more important and I think as I got older that became even more true, especially when sticking up for myself. Now, that might not be exactly what Lochie meant by those lyrics but in reality, that’s the beautiful thing about music. That it can be interpreted in so many ways and effect people on all kinds of different wavelengths.
The album keeps up the chaotic energy for the next three tracks (“Double-Edge Demise,” “Haunter,” and “Sucks 2 Suck” ft. Ice-T) until you hit #5. “Whenever You’re Ready“ is, by far, my favorite from the entire album and not from an energy standpoint but from an emotional one. The song’s chorus says, “You can break down if you want to, you can stay inside if you need to,” and to someone like me who has battled depression/self-harm (as well as millions of others), it’s like a way of saying ‘it’s okay to not be okay 100% of the time and its okay to take time away from society when everything feels too much.’ I didn’t grow up in the most understanding of environments, and though it has improved immensely in my adulthood because of the people I choose to surround myself with… I can still feel it creeping up on me from time to time. So, songs like these, when artists are raw with emotion, it’s refreshing. Not only does it make them more than just a voice on a radio, but it also shows an emotional likeness and connection between people living separate lives. After track five the album picks up again with fan favorites like “Pretty Boy,” “Mangekyo,” and of course “Half Living Things.”
I have worked with Alpha Wolf several times in the past and maintained a friendship with Mitch Fogarty, so he was nice enough to do an interview with me while writing this article; addressing things from his favorite tracks to play live to personal tour details. When asked what some of his favorite tracks to play live from the Half Living Things album were, Mitch stated “It’s hard to say just yet because we haven’t played all of the songs from half living things live, but I do really enjoy playing ‘A Terrible Day for Rain‘ and ‘Mangekyo‘ also. Both have great live energy for us.”
Alpha Wolf, known for their upbeat energy, creates a unique type of mood in a pit setting. Considering that the artists are always on stage playing, they never get to experience the feeling that they create for others in the crowd. So, I asked him; what song from the album he would choose to experience in the pit for himself. “Oooh that’s a tough one. Personally, I think ‘Sucks 2 Suck’ would be fun because we’ve started doing a kind of ‘Slipknot’ ‘Spit it out’ Jump-up-on-the-drop kind of thing which looks like a lot of fun if you’re in the crowd.”
Messages in music, like mentioned in the paragraph above, are important and Mitch gave me a bit of insight into Alpha Wolf and how they go about the topic. “When it comes to messages that we try to get to our fans, we don’t really aim for a whole album ‘theme’ or anything like that. We go on a song-by-song basis because all of our songs, have the potential to feel very differently depending on what you’re singing about or whether we chuck some singing or some melody over somewhere or whatever so they’re all different vibes. I would say we were, 90% in getting all of our points across. Because I mean, you’re not going to connect with people all the time but also, some of our points are stupid! like ‘Bring Back the Noise’ just a noisy chaotic song! ‘Pretty Boy’ little bit sexy still heavy, ‘Terrible Day For Rain,’ you know, talking about a funeral, so there’s like just a lot of different things we want to or CAN, talk about. It’s just depends on what we’re aiming for and what the song needs.”
Alpha Wolf has played their music all over the world in places like Canada, New Zealand, Germany, Czechia, Slovenia, and the Netherlands. But the places that get the majority of their presents, luckily enough for us, are the U.S. and of course their homeland of Australia. When asked what his personal favorite tour has been since the release of Half Living Things, he had this to say. “Every tour is great in a different way. Personally, I really enjoyed the headline tour.” He then went on to say, “Getting to connect with fans through the VIP package option and you know, people who like the broader aspect of that catalogue was very nice.” The Alpha Wolf Half Living Things North American headlining tour kicked off on April 12, 2024, in Mesa, Arizona, and extended to May 26, 2024, ending in Houston, Texas. Along the way they hit cities like Tampa, Detroit, Nashville, and New York. Check out the photos below for some sneak peeks of the Tampa, Florida, show shot by yours truly.
Not only is this album my favorite of 2024 but the guys that play the music are just as special. I have never seen a humbler set of guys and I cannot wait to see what they create in the near future.
To catch the pack live at a city near you in 2025, click here to stay up to date on future tour/show announcements.
Jade signing off, XOXO
@galbabyyy
Huge shout out to Mitch Fogarity for the AF personal touches in the article!
This article is dedicated to my dad because without him, I wouldn’t have had the courage to chase my dreams and for that I am forever grateful.
Love you dad <3
Socials/Instagram:
Lochie Keogh (Lead Vocalist) – @mangekyo.u
Sabian Lynch (Guitar) – @sabianlynch
John Arnold (Bass, Backing Vocals) – @johnaarnold
Scottie Simpson (Lead Guitar) – @scottiesimpson
Mitch Fogarity (Drums) – @mitchelljfogarty
Buy Merch here to support the band and their future projects!
Album Track List:
#1) Bring Back The Noise
#2) Double-Edge Demise
#3) Haunter
#4) Sucks 2 Suck (ft. Ice-T)
#5) Whenever You’re Ready
#6) Pretty Boy
#7) Mangekyo
#8) A Terrible Day For Rain
#9) Feign
#10) Garden of Eyes
#11) Half Living Things
#12) Ambivalence
Half Living Things Headliner Tour Photo Gallery
05/04/24 – Orpheum Tampa – Tampa, Florida
Article Photos by Jade Perkins (@galbabyyy)
INFINITY right freaking NOW: Infinity by Keith Wallen
Singer-songwriter Keith Wallen is one artist who punctuates the definition of rockstar. Starting his professional career in Copper, then Adelitas Way in 2009, then starting a solo career and joining Breaking Benjamin months apart from each other in 2014. Now he is a dad in a legacy rock band, with a dope solo project. His most recent solo work, Infinity Now, comes with a creative leap, a more polished production, a mix of genres, and the catchiest hooks yet.
January 12, 2024, Wallen released the first single “Strings,” which was a perfect demonstration of Wallen’s ability to blend heartfelt lyrics on a soaring melody; themes of resilience, connection, and vulnerability. His next single, “Headspace Holiday,” released on February 9, is his current number one single with over 440,000 streams on Spotify alone, and has composition credits with Cody Quistad of Wage War. The song was a prime example of Wallen’s ability to marry introspective lyrics and massive choruses. The final single, “The Wolf,” was released on March 15 and, six days later, Wallen was on a headlining tour with Breaking Benjamin for just over a month. Nine days after, Wallen released his sophomore album Infinity Now, with themes that cover mental health, personal growth, love, loss, and resilience. After a short break, Wallen started touring the album in April opening for Through Fire, and then another two week run with Citizen Soldier in July.
Wallen released Infinity Now with label Rise Records following his 2021 debut, This World or the Next, which comprises ten songs that blend alternative rock with modern influences. The Album’s title track, “Infinity,” contemplates the search for meaning amidst life’s uncertainties while “Headspace Holiday” speaks a universal desire for a mental break from overwhelming aspects of living. My personal favorite is “Blackout,” a more upbeat jam with dynamic guitar work and introspective lyrics, showcasing Wallen’s signature blend of hard rock energy and emotional depth. The lyrics convey a sense of internal struggle and the allure of surrendering to overwhelming forces. The album’s conclusion, “Dear Father,” is a personal talk with every listener who experienced loss to any degree. The weight and hurt in his voice carry a chill down the listeners spine, and maybe even a tear to the eye while acoustic guitars and violins deliver a somber yet punctual enhancement the emotional depth. Wallen dedicated it to his late father reminiscing the past while simultaneously wishing the present wasn’t so bitter.
In the end, Infinity Now is more than just a collection of songs- its a glimpse into the heart and mind of an artist unafraid to lay it all bare. Wallen reminds us that music isn’t just something we hear; its something listeners feel, something to connect with, and something that makes the listener reflect. Whether youre drawn to heavy drums, creamy melodies, or soaring vocal work. this album will leave a mark. Critics have praised Infinity Now for its cohesive blend of influences and Wallen’s ability to craft relatable, heartfelt songs. The album has been described as a significant milestone in his career, highlighting his growth as a solo artist beyond his contributions to other projects. For those wanting to dive in, Keith’s solo work is available across multiple streaming platforms and physical copies are available through his website and retailers around.
Judas Priest – Invincible Sheild
Judas Priest’s Invincible Shield is an audacious return to form, embodying the relentless power that has made the band heavy metal legends for over five decades. While many thought that Firepower (2018) might be the band’s final major statement, Invincible Shield proves that Judas Priest still have plenty of fight left, delivering an album that fuses their classic sound with a fresh modern edge.
The album bursts open with the blistering track “Panic Attack,” a speed metal anthem that feels like it could have been pulled from the Painkiller era, yet with a crisp, updated production. Rob Halford’s voice is still a weapon to be reckoned with—sharp, soaring, and as ferocious as ever. His legendary falsetto screeches dominate throughout the album, proving that the Metal God hasn’t lost an ounce of his vocal power.
From the rapid-fire riffing of “Serpent and the King” to the menacing chug of “Gates of Hell,” guitarists Richie Faulkner and Andy Sneap bring a thunderous dual-guitar attack. The solos are fiery and intricate, effortlessly blending melody with metallic aggression, evoking the twin-guitar magic once delivered by Glenn Tipton and KK Downing.
The title track, “Invincible Shield,” stands as a defiant anthem, with a rhythmic pulse that makes it one of the album’s heaviest offerings. It’s a track designed for live performance, its lyrics a war cry for resilience and determination—Judas Priest at their motivational best. Lyrically, Halford delves into themes of strength, defiance, and perseverance, continuing to position Judas Priest as the titans of empowerment through metal.
A standout cut, “Crown of Horns,” draws on Priest’s ability to craft epic atmospheres with its dark, brooding tones that eventually erupt into a galloping assault reminiscent of their early work. There’s an underlying theatricality in the song that gives it an air of doom, perfect for longtime fans who crave the gothic mystique Priest occasionally weaves into their catalog.
Though the band doesn’t stray too far from their well-honed formula, tracks like “Trail by Fire” show a willingness to experiment. The song incorporates atmospheric elements and layered synths that add depth without detracting from the band’s signature heavy approach.
Drummer Scott Travis’ precision on the kit is as commanding as ever, laying down thundering rhythms that drive the album’s pacing, while bassist Ian Hill keeps the foundation steady, providing a solid backbone to each of the album’s ten powerful tracks.
If there’s a criticism to be had, it’s that Invincible Shield can occasionally feel like it’s revisiting past glories without breaking substantial new ground. That said, for a band like Judas Priest, who’ve essentially defined and perfected their genre, this album doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel. It thrives on delivering exactly what the fans want: unrelenting, hard-hitting heavy metal from one of the greatest metal bands to ever grace the stage.
In Invincible Shield, Judas Priest prove once again that they are not only survivors in the heavy metal world but leaders who continue to wield influence and power. The album stands tall as a testament to their legacy and their enduring ability to deliver pure, undiluted heavy metal excellence.
Jaden Hossler’s When the Music Stops: The 2000’s Nostalgia Sounding Album Us Millenials Have Been Craving:
On June 28, 2024, Jaden Hossler blessed us with an awe-inspiring masterpiece that is When The Music Stops. There are several reasons why this is my favorite album of 2024, but the biggest reason is the sound. Jaden is usually known for a more pop punk, lightly toned sound, however, this album is his love letter to rock music. His newer, more raspy, grungy sound is exactly the type of sound that needs to make a comeback.
My top five favorite songs on this album are “Stray,” “When the Music Stops,” “What the Hell,” “Sad October,” and “Candles.” These songs rank in my top five because, in my honest opinion, I think these have the deepest meanings, greatest sounds and technicalities, and the most meaningful messages. I will break down every song and why they mean so much to me, starting with number five.
1. Candles:
My interpretation of “Candles” is that this song is about being easily manipulated in a toxic relationship. The lyrics, “you tried to save me from myself, you tried to save me from my hell, you tried to save me to save yourself,” screams towards dating some who is a narcissist. Sadly, I can relate to going through that type of relationship. That is why i can relate to and feel what Jaden went through while writing this song. Thankfully, I am married now to a wonderful, caring man and will never have to feel that way again, and I hope Jaden never has to feel that way again as well.
2. Sad October
“Sad October” is another song I can empathize with on past relationships. The opening line, “I said I’d let you ruin my life, so you ruined it twice,” hit home for me. Unfortunately, past me was terrible at making decisions, so I really felt this lyric hit me straight in the gut (but I won’t go into detail about that). “Sad October” also has that early 2000’s, garage rock sound. I would 100% be blasting this in my room as a young teen.
3. What the Hell
“What the Hell” is my third favorite because, not only does it have a great guitar hook, it is a song about overthinking actions in a relationship, which I could win a gold metal for if it was a sport. Overthinking even the smallest things in a relationship for people like myself with ADHD can lead to what I like to call “brain static.” So many thoughts race through my mind to the point where it all just becomes noise. Jaden portrays this feeling perfectly towards the end of the song, with him repeating constantly, “What the hell did I do now,” as it slowly fades into soft noise.
4. When the Music Stops
“When the Music Stops” tugs ever so dearly at my heart. Like Jaden, I, too, have gone through similar mental health struggles and have lost a dear friend to suicide almost seven years ago now. I know the pain all too well when it comes to losing someone you never thought you would lose to the darkness of unliving. “When the Music Stops” does have a lighter, more hopeful meaning, though. “Life gets better,” “You saved my life before, but the music saved my soul,” are both immensely powerful lyrics for us all to take in and to live by.
5. Stray
And last, but not least, my number one favorite song, “Stray.” “Stray” is my favorite song on the album purely for its sound. I said it before and I’ll say it again, this is the early 2000’s grungy, y2k shit I would be blaring in my room as a teenager. It sounds literally perfect in every way. “I would say I hate myself, but there’s nothing left to hate,” portrays the feelings of longing for acceptance, deceit, and abandonment, which are all valid feelings when feeling like a “stray.”
Other songs on the album that I really enjoy are “Just Let Go,” “Baccarat,” “Wreck Me,” and “You Just Needed Someone and I Happened to be There.” If you haven’t taken the time to listen to this album and it’s entirely, I highly advise that you do. When the Music Stops is an album everyone needs to hear, whether or not you’ve been through similar situations or struggles. It is an album that provides meaningful hope, comfort, and reassurance that everything will turn out just fine. We are hope. We are music.
Best of 2024: “Don’t Forget Me” by Maggie Rogers – A Masterclass in Growing Up and Letting Go
Us Maggie Rogers fans were admittedly a bit spoiled in 2024. Between packing arenas worldwide on her international tour and releasing her latest album “Don’t Forget Me,” Rogers has proven herself to be an artist reaching new destinations, and there’s never been a better time to hop on the train. Maggie’s music has always held a special place in the hearts of her fans, with a nostalgic voice that perfectly soundtracks New England autumn drives. This album not only refines that signature sound but also demonstrates an even greater depth than her previous works.
“Don’t Forget Me,” Maggie Rogers’ third studio album, stands as a deeply introspective exploration of navigating one’s early adult years, examining the complexities of growing up and growing apart. Rogers masterfully weaves together narratives of profound transition – from childhood homes being sold to friends getting married – while processing the bittersweet reality of change. The album reads like an intimate diary entry during a pivotal life moment, capturing both the resistance to change and the eventual acceptance that everything, including heartbreak and growth, was inevitable.
The lead single, “So Sick of Dreaming,” sets the tone with its defiant energy, culminating in a spoken-word bridge about being stood up for Knicks tickets. This track showcases Rogers’ evolved confidence, with its assertive message of self-worth and independence. Meanwhile, “The Kill” demonstrates her talent for detailed storytelling, painting vivid pictures of driving upstate and making future plans, before revealing the complex truth that both parties in a relationship can be simultaneously victims and perpetrators of heartbreak.
One of the album’s most poignant moments comes in “I Still Do,” a gentle yet devastating acknowledgment that love sometimes isn’t enough to keep people together. The track’s central message that “love is not a debt you pay” resonates deeply, especially when coupled with the admission that feelings can persist even as people grow apart.
The album closes with its title track, “Don’t Forget Me,” which serves as both a personal reflection and a thematic culmination. Through observations about friends navigating traditional adult milestones, Rogers explores different versions of love and commitment while processing her own path. The song’s closing plea to “don’t forget me” perfectly encapsulates the album’s themes about growth, change, and the permanent marks we leave on each other’s lives.
Having followed Rogers since her debut album, “Heard it in a Past Life,” watching her artistic evolution has been nothing short of special. “Don’t Forget Me” represents another triumph in her growing discography, showcasing an artist in her prime who’s confidently carving out her space in the music world. Through intimate storytelling and raw emotional honesty, Maggie Rogers has created a powerful testament to the experience of learning to let go while hoping to be remembered. For those of us who’ve been along for the ride since the beginning, this album somehow feels like both a natural progression and a stunning leap forward in her artistry.
JESSIE MURPH ALBUM REVIEW 2024
That Ain’t No Man That’s The Devil
Jessie Murph’s debut album, That Ain’t No Man That’s The Devil, was released on September
6, 2024. This album became a personal favorite for its fearless authenticity and emotional
depth. Having watched the album take shape during her “Cowboys And Angels” and “In The
Sticks” tours, the anticipation only heightened the impact of hearing the finished project.
Blending country, pop, and alternative influences, Jessie delivers raw, cinematic tracks that
explore heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery. Her raspy, evocative vocals and confessional
lyrics make every song feel both deeply personal and universally relatable. My favorite track
from the album has definitely got to be “Love Lies.” The energy in that song is absolutely
infectious—it has this irresistible groove that never fails to get me up and dancing every time I
hear it. A skip on the album would be “Wild Ones.” Not that I don’t like the song—it’s great—but
since it was released before the album, it didn’t feel fresh or exciting compared to the rest of the
new tracks. This album is a powerful debut that solidifies Jessie Murph as one of the year’s
most compelling new artists.
The self-titled effect: State Champs by State Champs is an earthquake of pop-punk ferocity
After four albums and over a decade of pop-punk dominance, State Champs returned in 2024 with their self-titled fifth record, a declaration of identity and heavy-hitting pop-punk resurgence. For the first time, the band pairs their name with a symbol of victory —a trophy—on the cover, signaling a moment of reflection and celebration for a career that has consistently elevated the genre.
From the opening chords of “The Constant” to the anthemic closer “Golden Years,” State Champs pulses with the high-octane intensity and emotional vulnerability that have become their signature. Tracks like “Clueless” and “Sobering” showcase the band’s growth without abandoning the raw, youthful edge that catapulted them to stardom. There’s a seamless blend of the punchy hooks from The Finer Things and the polished production of Kings of the New Age, resulting in a dynamic collection that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. My top song from the collection is “Hell Of It,” one of the few, if only, more mellow tracks on the record that encapsulates the band’s signature pop-punk vitality with a polished, radio-friendly finish. It captures the essence of letting loose and embracing the chaos, with a blend of punchy guitars, a relentless beat, and live-for-the-moment lyrics. It’s a song to blast on road trips while traveling down long roads alongside friends or family. With catchy hooks and bold delivery, “Hell Of It” stands out as a highlight of the album, showcasing the band’s knack for crafting songs that feel both nostalgic and invigorating.
What sets this record apart is the undeniable chemistry that permeates every riff and lyric, a sentiment that was further catapulted into the spotlight during their Fall North American tour alongside Daisy Grenade, Meet Me @ The Altar, and Knuckle Puck. As a band that has remained consistent internally for precisely a decade as of 2024, the group has evolved together and their new sound is a testament to their synergy in front of live audiences and behind a recording booth. Frontman Derek DiScanio’s voice crackles with conviction as he navigates themes of personal growth, the complexities of relationships, and perseverance. Guitarist Tyler Szalkowski is a master of riffs, crafting passages that are signature to State Champs’ sound and easily identifiable as a driving force to their music. Bassist Ryan Scott Graham and drummer Evan Ambrosio blend together even more cohesively on this record, instilling a thumping rhythm in every track that makes the album an earworm you will want to jump around in mosh pits to. Tracks like “I Still Want To” and “Tight Grip” are not just songs; they’re rallying cries to resilience, embodying the unbreakable spirit that has defined State Champs’ career.
The production, helmed by Anton Delost, strikes a perfect balance between polish and grit. While the album sounds massive, there’s an intimacy in the way the insturments interplay, as if the band is right there in the room with the listener. This cohesion is a monument of the band’s unwavering commitment to authenticity, even as they refine their sound.
Lyrically, State Champs reflects on the band’s journey with introspective tracks like “Just a Dream,” where the weight of their experiences is palpable. Yet, there’s a lightness and celebratory tone that permeates the album, reminding listeners that pop-punk, at its core, is about finding joy amid the chaos. The album is a no-skip record stockpiled with zestful, vivacious hits. While State Champs are masters of acoustic renditions, the album features primarily only upbeat anthems, hinting at the possibility of future acoustic re-masters from the band that fans can look forward to. The album contains one guest appearance, from the up and coming band Slope, on “Save Face Story,” an assertion of State Champs’ support of newer artists redefining the genre. State Champs is twelve tracks of raw State Champs audacity that any fan of the genre will appreciate.
The influence of collaborators such as Courtney Ballard, Kevin “Trash” Guft, and Curtis Peoples is evident but never overshadows Champs’ distinctive sound. Each contribution enhances the record, adding layers of depth without diluting the band’s essence.
Ultimately, State Champs is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a statement. It’s a reaffirmation of who State Champs is and a promise of what’s to come. For longtime fans, it’s a celebration of the band’s legacy. For newcomers, it’s a perfect entry point into the vibrant world of one of pop-punk’s modern torchbearers.
In a genre often defined by fleeting trends, State Champs stands tall, not just a an album, but as a testament to the enduring power of passion, friendship, and the unrelenting pursuit of chasing a dream. This is State Champs at their best—and they’re just getting started.
Album Review: GNX – Kendrick Lamar
By Bear Perry
LA is up right now, California is up right now, in fact, the whole West Coast is on top of the world right now. That’s how Kendrick’s 2024 run has us feeling.
Someone asked me this year what makes me “feel like.” I’m from California and my most honest answer is “listening to Kendrick Lamar.”
Earlier this year we were treated to the rap beef of the century when Drake and Kendrick locked horns for the entire summer. The beef started as what felt like a friendly sparring between two peers at the top of their field. Ultimately, the feud ended with Kendrick dancing in the charred remains of Drake’s reputation and music career.
It turns out that “Not Like Us” wasn’t the main course of 2024 and would serve as an appetizer for what was to come….
“GNX” dropped out of nowhere on a quiet November morning. Kendrick releases are historically quiet but this one felt particularly out of the blue. We had an idea that new music was coming… That teaser song in the “Not Like Us” video was in high demand, but I don’t think anyone was ready for the gospel of hatred that was released to the public via GNX.
Kendrick’s conversations with God throughout this process of getting better has culminated into two of the most profound introspective raps I’ve ever heard. “man at the garden” and “reincarnated” are bonafide holy books, the way Kendrick is in conversation with God. Everything he’s learned during his time in therapy and in his reflections is on full display here. “reincarnated” addresses a man torn between war and peace, ultimately coming to the conclusion that one can not exist without the other.
While I may call this album a gospel of hatred, Kendrick’s knack for tenderness is on full display here. Tracks like “Luther,” “The Heart pt. 6,” and “Gloria” all see K Dot in a space of full vulnerability. Whether he’s reminiscing on early TDE days or remembering the highs and lows of his partnerships, Kendrick shows us that you don’t need to let the vitriol bleed into every area of your life. Sometimes you just need to go super Saiyan and yell through some anger.
“All I ever wanted was a black Grand National, fuck being rational, give em what they asked for,” is more than a mission statement; It’s a spoiler, it’s a declaration of incoming artillery.
For me personally, “tv off” feels like a sequel to “Not Like Us” and Kendrick gave us exactly what we asked for.
“MUUUSSTAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRDDDDD” is Kendrick standing on business, loading the chamber, and letting off the whole clip. It feels like Dot’s suffering no prisoners and pitying no fools here, as he just bars out for three minutes and 40 seconds. Personally, as a Dragon Ball fan, I can’t help but hear hints of the “Ultra Instinct” music in the TV off beat, this could be entirely coincidental, but knowing Kendrick, this could be his subtle way of letting us know that he’s once again found a way to surpass his own limits.
GNX is my album of the year because it felt like a moment in time we all shared. It’s very rare to see my entire news feed talking about the same album. It’s even more rare to see everyone talking about the same album, weeks later. Moments in time like this are necessary for community building. I’ve had countless conversations with friends about “where we were” when we first heard GNX.
In my opinion, art is at its best when there’s conversation around it. Whether it be through memes, album reviews like this one, or just two people talking on the street… GNX has left its mark as the album of the year.
Standout lines:
“The love and hate is definite, without a cure.” – wacced out murals
“Aye I’m tripping and I’m loving it.” – gnx
“Free your hearts and watch them fly.” -heart pt 6
“MUUUSSTAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRDDDDD.” – tv off
Greetings From Suffocate City: The Album That Speaks to Your Soul
As music fans, we often seek out that elusive album that resonates deeply with us, one that feels like it was crafted specifically for our struggles, triumphs, and innermost thoughts. For me, that album is undoubtedly Greetings From Suffocate City. Released in 2024, it has quickly become a touchstone of authenticity, connection, and emotional support not just for me, but for countless listeners who share the challenges of mental health and self-discovery.
From the very first track, this album captivates with its raw and honest lyrics. Each song feels like a slice of life, created by someone who truly understands the complexities of what it means to be human. It’s rare to come across a collection of songs where every track leaves a mark on your heart, and this album masterfully achieves that. The first time I hit play, I was transported. I remember each moment of that initial listen, and how the soundscape flooded my mind with both familiarity and relief.
In an age where mental health issues are often stigmatized and overlooked, Greetings From Suffocate City bravely tackles these “Dark Thoughts” head-on. For those of us battling depression and anxiety, having an album that acknowledges these feelings can be incredibly validating. The honesty infused in the lyrics is refreshing; it breaks down barriers and creates a space where listeners feel safe to explore their vulnerabilities.
One standout track is “Stay Weird,” which has become an anthem for anyone questioning their life choices and identities. The chorus boldly declares that it’s okay to be different, to embrace your quirks, and to resist societal pressures. It’s a powerful reminder that your worth is not dictated by the opinions of others. This message resonates profoundly: who cares what people think? What matters is the truth of who you are. The freedom to express yourself authentically is an essential theme woven throughout the album.
The band’s intricate melodies and harmonious vocals complement the lyrical depth perfectly. It’s as if they crafted an entire soundscape that mirrors the chaos and beauty of navigating life’s challenges. Whether you feel stuck, “Suffocated,” scared, or lonely, there’s a song in this album that feels like a friend, somebody to confide in and share the journey of life with.
Musicians are often seen as solitary figures, but Greetings From Suffocate City fosters a sense of community. It invites listeners to lean into their emotions rather than shy away from them. It encourages open dialogue about mental health and personal struggles, reminding us all that we are not alone in our experiences. This is an album for those tough days when you feel like you’re drowning in your thoughts, offering solace in its melodies and lyrics.
Greetings From Suffocate City is more than just music; it’s an emotional lifeline. It serves as a beacon for anyone navigating the complexities of their feelings, offering strength, understanding, and encouragement. To the musicians behind this transformative album: thank you for putting the realities of mental health into a beautiful soundtrack. “Stay Weird” my friends, and remember that you are never truly alone
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