Canadian dark rock act The Birthday Massacre continues to send shockwaves around the globe, evident in their latest beast of an album, Pathways, out last month via Metropolis Records. For newer listeners, the band has captivated many fans since 1999; their gothic-meets-electronic vibe will entice you and put you under a spell, almost trance-like.
Goth, electronica, rock, and a touch of pop — all under one black umbrella.
The Birthday Massacre brings color to sound, hooking your heart as much as your mind. This is especially evident in their latest release, with singles “Sleep Tonight” and “All of You” teased to fans ahead of Pathways‘ official drop.
But, even with the full album now available, my favorite is “Sleep Tonight”, for sure… it’s so easy to hit replay as you drive at high-speed down highways, almost like you’re transporting yourself into another world. It’s thunderous beat is also fitting to listen to on a moonlit night, with its dark hypnotic guitar chords echoing in your heart.
The second lead single, “All of You“, is more of a heartbroken and emotional song, with provoking lyrical content. Here’s just a taste:
“All I see // Underneath this sympathy // Is this nothing? // Left you inside of me.”
Moving on through the album, “The Vanishing Game“ offers more electronica paired to a sweet melody, before leading to the title track which embraces a industrial 80s sound. Once you’re sent back in time (when synths ruled the world), along comes “Whisper” which evaporates into darkness. “Wish” is another track dripping with 80s influences (think, Gary Numan or Peter Murphy). Rounding out the short and sweet 8-track album are “Faces“ and “Cruel Love” — perfect finale songs that leave you wanting more.
From nostalgic soundscapes to heavy synths riffs and heart-wrenching motifs, Pathways is most certainly the band’s strongest album yet. It’s great to see The Birthday Massacre continue to push boundaries, celebrating the album with a 13-date autumn tour in the UK beginning October 24th.
The Birthday Massacre – “Sleep Tonight” lyric video
Track listing:
- Sleep Tonight
- All Of You
- The Vanishing Game
- Pathways
- Whisper
- Wish
- Faces
- Cruel Love
Steam ‘Pathways’ album:
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Disclaimer: All views presented in this album review are those of the reviewer and not necessarily those of Top Shelf Music.
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