Dead Poet Society is back for another round! After the release of their sophomore slam dunk -!-, I was an avid fan of their tasteful alt-rock flavour. Now, two years past, Dead Poet Society is freshened up for a new album cycle, and starts it off with a bang. With a two-single release to start us off, there is no debate as to whether we're in for a good time or not.
Running In Circles is the more standard anthemic alt-rock cut of the two that they're known for. Crunchy basslines, tasteful drumming and powerful vocals dominate the majority of the song, peaking at the chorus. It's a great tune and easy to consume, and I love the variety of it all. I love the cheeky little guitar riffs we get here and there, and how they gave the bridge lots of space to evolve the song. This track could easily fit on the previous record, and that is a testament to the consistency of their alt-rock prowess.
HURT is my personal favourite of the two, taking a slightly different route in the alt-rock world. Capitalising heavily on one phenomenal chorus, with a perfect pairing of vocal melody and guitar melody underneath, it is such an earworm. Groovier than any other song they've put out, featuring some of the most relentless vocal outputs the band's ever had, this song might not be as arena-esque but it is just as powerful, if not more. I am in love with the cadences and the syncopation that add so much to the vocal delivery, not to mention how expressive his vocals get at some points. Chorus aside, I think the verses are actually pretty solid. They complement the energy of the chorus very well, taking a softer vocal tone and downpicking eighths. The bridge is also really well put together, evolving the melodies we've already heard in a way that feels surprisingly refreshing.
The trend so far with two-single releases is that I always seem to love the second song way more than the first one, despite it having less plays. Regardless, a great first offering for what's to come, as it definitely has me excited for the album in January 2024. Until then, I'll keep putting HURT on repeat until my ears bleed.
Rating: 4/5