U.K pop-punk band, Neck Deep are set to release their new full-length album, All Distortions Are Intentional, on July 24 via Hopeless Records.
Serving as the follow up album to The Peace And The Panic, the band’s 2017 release, All Distortions Are Intentional tells a story of a loner named Jett, who was introduced in the band’s video for “Lowlife.” Jett lives in Sonderland, merging “Wonderland” and the obscure word “sonder:” the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own, with their own ambitions and worries.
“It’s that strange existential realization that you are not the entire world,” lead vocalist, Ben Barlow said, “everyone around you feels and lives the same way that you do. You’re just an extra in their story.”
The album enters with “Sonderland,” ringing in with pounding drums and a forceful first verse. Showcasing a variety of smooth transitions and a passionate chorus. This track sets the tone for what’s to come on this record.
Next comes single, “Fall,” a song that speaks to hesitation of feeling good. Words such as “This is getting deeper, falling faster/but we might just take it too far/damn, it feels so good to,” are strung together embodying a sense of recklessness. “Fall” exudes a powerful yet quick bridge with a slight acoustic outro, making for a ear pleasing contrast.
Following “Fall” comes the band’s debut single, “Lowlife,” setting up the scene for the album’s character, Jett, the song swings in and stays steady throughout while sprinkling in elements of harder guitars, making for a standout dynamic.
“Telling Stories” bleeds as a classic pop-punk track. Vocals stay bold throughout, shining a light on fast paced lyrics while drawing attention to rock undertones delivered in a frantic, catchy way. “Telling Stories” is sure to be a fan favorite.
Single, “When You Know” explores sounds of a love song, point blank it’s about realizing you’re in love. However other lyrics such as “admit there’s a reason you’re not letting go” and “Open arms like we’re infinite/you’ve got nothing left to lose/when you’ve been crying all night” hits listeners in a different way, unzipping emotions that haven’t been touched. “When You Know” leaves a little bit up for interpretation, making it one to take note of.
“Quarry” takes the album in an interesting turn. The song generates a overcast feel on the album, drums are prominent and vocals are almost spoken. Resting at only a little over a minute long “Quarry” showcases ND’s skill in switching the dynamic of an album in a subtle, tasteful way.
Recently released single, “Sick Joke,” follows a slick melody and puts forth quick vocal changes. The music shows slight switches from acceleration to decreases in tempo. The track is topped with small acoustic moments making for a well-rounded track.
As fans make their way down the record they’ll find “Empty House,” presenting itself as acoustic and slowly ascending into a full-band song. “Empty House” features smooth vocals, the song constructs an array of melodies that fit perfectly together, making it a gem on the record.
“Little Dove” manifests simplicity, radiating sounds of a lullaby. Keeping steady the song focuses in on the band’s strength in building vast energies throughout the record.
The record closes out on “Pushing Daises” keeping a substantial tempo. Bringing in a hopeful sound, listeners will feel a connection to the song. Underlying rock themes help sky-rocket this track into the perfect ending to the album.
Neck Deep has shown an incredible amount of growth since becoming a side-project in 2012. They’ve connected with listeners establishing a fan base that feels more like a family. Each record they’ve put out shows maturity and adaption within the music scene, keeping things fresh while still oozing familiarity.
Be sure to pick up the full record this Friday, (7/24/20) and keep up with the band on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
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