Monster Shop Score: 84/100
In a musical landscape where evolution is often the key to survival, Bring Me The Horizon have once again demonstrated their ability to adapt and innovate with their latest release, POST HUMAN: NeX GEn. This album is a kaleidoscope of genres, a testament to the band’s refusal to be pigeonholed, and a bold statement in the ever-shifting world of modern rock.
Background and Context
Bring Me The Horizon, a band that has traversed the realms of metalcore, alternative rock, and electronic music, has become synonymous with evolution. Since their inception, they have consistently pushed the boundaries of their sound, with albums like Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park serving as a parallel to their transformative journey. POST HUMAN: NeX GEn, released on 24th May 2024 under Columbia Records, marks their seventh studio album and the second instalment in their ‘Post Human’ series. Following the critically acclaimed POST HUMAN: Survival Horror, this album had a high bar to meet, especially after delays heightened anticipation.
Musical Style and Themes
The album is a genre-defying odyssey, weaving together elements of post-hardcore, pop-punk, hyperpop, and alternative metal. It opens with the introspective YOUtopia, setting a tone of self-reflection that permeates the album. Oli Sykes’ lyrics delve into personal struggles, touching on themes of addiction and mental health, which are both raw and relatable. The collaboration with artists such as Aurora, Lil Uzi Vert, and members of Underoath adds a rich tapestry of sounds and influences, ensuring each track offers something unique.
Key Tracks and Collaborations
Standout tracks include Top 10 Statues That Cried Blood, which showcases glitchy, math-rock influences, and AmEN!, a heavy-hitting track featuring Lil Uzi Vert and Daryl Palumbo. liMOusIne, featuring Aurora, provides a haunting contrast with its slower tempo and emotive vocals. Meanwhile, Kool-Aid and DArkSide offer catchy hooks and powerful riffs, reminiscent of the band’s heavier roots.
Critical Evaluation
Critics have largely praised POST HUMAN: NeX GEn for its creativity and willingness to experiment. The album’s eclectic nature is both its strength and its potential pitfall, as some listeners might find the rapid shifts in style disorienting. However, this boldness is precisely what sets Bring Me The Horizon apart from their contemporaries. While some reviews noted a perceived lack of cohesion, the album’s ambition cannot be understated. It reflects a band unafraid to explore new musical territories while maintaining a core identity that fans have come to love.
Conclusion
In the grand tapestry of Bring Me The Horizon‘s discography, POST HUMAN: NeX GEn stands as a testament to their unyielding drive to innovate. It may not surpass the seamless execution of POST HUMAN: Survival Horror, but it certainly cements their status as trendsetters in the modern rock scene. This album is not just a collection of songs; it is an experience that challenges, provokes, and ultimately rewards the listener.
Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on POST HUMAN: NeX GEn by Bring Me The Horizon. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!
