Finally gave this one a few good listens today (and picked up the black/magenta swirl variant at my local shop!) and yeah this fucking rules. Will probably jump MS shortly but, even if it doesnt, hell of a release that will be in constant rotation.
I’ve listened to this three times and I like it but not near as much as their last two albums. It just doesn’t catch my ear or brain or attention the way the previous ones did and I’m not sure why. I think the new one isn’t that different and doesn’t really stray from their formula too much. Even though I really like their older albums I don’t know how many more of those same kind of songs I want. It just seems more of the same old even though they are good songs. I dunno, I might change my mind over time though
I cannot believe how big this band has gotten. I talked to Stefan less than 8 years ago when they opened for Menz and he was surprised I had heard of them before. Now they are selling out several thousand capacity venues
So on my first listen I was absolutely LOVING this and thinking it might be their best work but then it lost me a little bit after Waiting (so starting with Habits) and never really got me back. I'm sure the rest will grow on me, but just on the strength of that first half I'm putting this at second place after Morbid Stuff. These guys are remarkably consistent
Also I'm strongly considering going to their tour by myself. I've never seen them live before but I don't know anybody that listens to them lol
After not getting into the EP and not being super wowed by the singles, I'm genuinely surprised with how much I love this album, unsure if it's better than Morbid Stuff or TDIO but it's definitely up there with both of them. I actually love the second half of this, especially the closer and Habits, the latter of which may be my favourite PUP song and sounds like it could fit straight on something like BTMI's Vacation, which is very sick. Can't wait to spin this when/if the vinyl arrives today!
Definitely go if you can. I went on my own to a show of theirs and it was great fun. They're so good live
Also I never want to hear anyone complain about having to wear a mask every again after every member except Stefan wore one through the entire set
Second this. I have no idea what your personality is, and how much of a big deal going to shows is alone for you (if at all), but I go on average 2-3 shows a month, and the majority are alone as I don't share a music overlap with any friends in close proximity. I still always have a blast and some shows I meet people and have conversations, and others I just chill and vibe and enjoy and the music solo. The only awkward parts are in between bands when friend groups kind of circle up and you're left standing around awkwardly, but if it's a busy show, a lot of people are still crowded together waiting for the next band so I just hold my spot amongst the mass. I've never been called out for being the weirdo there alone lol I'm also self conscious about being a little older than most of the crowed (35), but again, never been a big deal. Haven't made it all the way through the album yet, but strong start and super high energy which is sort of opposite to how morbid stuff starts. (not that that album starts soft, but its not quite as forceful and driving as this one if that makes sense).