Review
Youth Fountain’s third studio album, Together in Lonesome, is like a musical rollercoaster that takes you on a heartfelt journey through the ups and downs of emo and pop-punk. Tyler Zanon, the Vancouver guitarist and vocalist driving the project, has cooked up a nostalgic feast of retro emo bangers that will have you reaching for your old studded wristbands.
Zanon’s lyrical exploration delves deep into the theme of loss, threading a narrative of overcoming significant personal challenges over the past decade. The album unfolds as a dark love story, reflecting on the emotional aftermath of losing what mattered most. This thematic resonance is particularly evident in the album’s lead single “Fallen Short”, that is like a therapy session set to music. Zanon tackles self-doubt in relationships, questioning if he’ll ever find someone to weather the storms with. It’s the kind of anthem that hits you right in the feels while still making you want to shout along.
The production magic happens as Zanon and producer Anton DeLost team up to breathe new life into old demos. The result? Tracks like “Clarity”, a skate-punk banger that could kickstart a pit at your local venue, and “A Few Notes For Orpheus”, an angular masterpiece that’s like an emo math problem you actually want to solve.
The next track “Roses in My Backpack” Is a track where you’ll be headbanging to before realizing it’s lyrical gut punch. “Patterns” is a track that throws a literal curveball into the mix by slowing things down. It’s a sweet change of pace, hitting you right in the feels with its retrospective love-letter vibe. The intimate and personal lyrics, delivered with a softer touch, make it the kind of song that has you swaying with a metaphorical lighter in hand.
The crowning glory comes with Together in Lonesome, and boy, does it live up to its name. Tackling the paradoxical sensation of feeling alone in someone’s company. With moments that whisper and crescendos that thrash, it’s a rollercoaster of emotions that showcases Zanon’s prowess in delivering complex, poetic lyrics with angst-filled energy. It’s not just a closer; it’s a belter that cements its place among pop-punk greats. As the final note rings out, it’s clear that big things are in store for Youth Fountain’s future.
Youth Fountain proves that an album is more than just a collection of tracks. The raw emotion, poetic lyricism and dynamic musicality showcased throughout leave a lasting imprint. With this release, youth fountain cements its status as a force to be reckoned with, leaving us eagerly anticipating the next chapter in their musical journey.