Strung Out, the iconic skate punk legends from Simi Valley, California, are back with a bang as they celebrate their 35th year in the music scene with their 10th studio album, 'Dead Rebellion.' Released under the legendary Fat Wreck Chords label, this album is a showcase of the band's evolution and enduring impact on the punk-metal genre.
The journey through 'Dead Rebellion' is an exploration of Strung Out's musical prowess and evolution over the years. While staying true to their melodic skate punk roots, the album ventures into new territories, embracing surprising elements of (GASP) nu-metal and hard rock, resulting in a sound that's a surprising mix of familiar, unexpected, and refreshingly innovative.
The album kicks off with "Future Ghosts," setting the tone with pounding drums and heavy guitar riffs that showcase a different yet captivating musical approach. Tracks like "Signal Fires" and "New Gods" keep the energy high with fast-paced guitars and infectious melodies, while "Life You Bleed" and "Veronica's Song" delve into the melodic essence of the band, delivering powerful messages amidst compelling songwriting.
What makes 'Dead Rebellion' stand out is its ability to blend the old with the new, offering a sonic journey that resonates with longtime fans while also attracting newcomers to the Strung Out universe. The album's production quality is top-notch, punctuating and accentuating the band's raw energy and musical complexity...while occasionally overwhelming.
'Dead Rebellion' has tight songwriting, powerful vocals by Jason Cruz, and the seamless integration of diverse musical influences, for sure. The addition of new drummer Daniel Blume adds a fresh dimension to the band's sound, making this album an interesting listen for punk-metal enthusiasts and music lovers craving an interesting experience. I don't know how many year end lists it will make it's way onto, but it's good, for sure.
As Strung Out continues to carve their path in the punk-metal landscape, 'Dead Rebellion' serves as an examples that Strung Out doesn't want to stay stagnant...35 years is a long time to stay the same and maintaining a drive to grow is necessary to continue for another 10...15...35?
So crank up the volume, strap in, and give Strung Out's 'Dead Rebellion' a spin.