Review
Dead Poet Society’s second album, FISSION, released on January 26 is here to redefine what it means to be an adult today. The dictionary definition of “fission” – the division or splitting into two or more parts – is a fitting title for an album that delves into the turbulent life events shaping our identities, from break-ups and addictions to loss and the ongoing quest for purpose.
FISSION showcases Dead Poet Society’s evolution with a sophisticated take on their signature alt-rock sound. The opening track, ‘5:29:45’ kicks off with confidence, channeling vibes akin to Royal Blood or Queens Of The Stone Age. ‘Running in Circles’ elevates the listener with conviction and pain, while ‘HURT’ maintains a hard and edgy feel with a blend of singing and storytelling. ‘How Could I Love You’ possibly interprets the karmic effects of life, emphasizing the message that love can be painful. Each track on the album carries meaningful narratives.
Now, let’s talk about ‘Hard To Be God’ – a track that hits you square in the feels. The mix of spoken and sung lyrics, paired with those gritty guitars, paints a vivid picture of navigating the ego in our social media-driven world. It’s serious, yet there’s this infectious humor that keeps it real. This track might be my favorite of this album.
The final song, ‘Black and Gold‘ leaves a lasting impression with its haunting sound, massive melody and impactful bass and drums.
You might have noticed this but the entire album maintains a balance between hardened, sad tones and moments of strength and anger. This LA-quartet’s vision for the album focusing on a feeling rather than a specific sound, is evident in the diverse range of emotions explored.
And last but not least, there is some good news for the fans! The band gears up for an extensive tour, FISSION promises not just to be a concert but an immersive experience.
Dead Poet Society strikes a perfect balance between raw emotion and infectious energy. FISSION stands out as more than just a collection of songs because of the band’s ability to tackle profound themes with a confident and relatable vibe. This might be their testament to their artistic maturity.