Bayside Releases “The Red” EP
Punk veterans, Bayside, are back with their latest EP: The Red.
Almost two decades have passed since the release of Bayside’s first full-length album, Sirens and Condolences,and the band shows no signs of slowing down. Although the sound of the group has grown over time, they’re still very much identifiable as the same band that came out swinging in the early 2000s. Unlike some other pop punk bands I could mention *cough* A DAY TO REMEMBER *cough.*
This release had a lot to live up to following Bayside’s 2019 LP, Interrobang, which was one of the group's best projects to date. Reportedly, during the interim between then and now, Bayside has struggled with isolation and inspiration (or the lack thereof), so this release had some anticipation behind it.
The group's last single, “Rainbow,” which dropped earlier this year, was a curious departure from the band’s previous work. Featuring an easy-going melody and reassuring lyrics, it was almost the exact opposite of the direction their music typically goes in. After listening to it, I wondered if it signaled a major change in pace for the group.
As it turns out, “Rainbow” was just a little intermission. On The Red, Bayside brings its usual witty, existential poetry and catchy instrumentals.
The first track, “Strangest Faces,” features the dash of Vaudeville that Bayside likes to occasionally season their tracks with. Not that I’m complaining because it’s always a treat. The colorful lyrics about being haunted by devil-like people who suck the life out of you and leave you in a hell disguised as heaven seem like a reference either to personal or professional experience with exploitation. It all creates a colorful atmosphere that’s perfect for the Halloween season.
“Good Advice” follows and continues the sentiment of being trapped in a rut and being halfway between wanting help to get out of it and just accepting your fate at a certain point, and instead trying to offer good advice to others. ”So just go save yourself / While you’re still worth saving / Someday you’ll die but for now enjoy the ride,” goes the chorus.
“Just Like Home” closes out the EP on a bitter note. As opposed to the passive tone of the last two tracks, this one ignites a spark of anger and frustration at an unsatisfying and forced life. Instrumentally, it’s the most aggressive and passionate of the three songs.
While The Red doesn’t quite reach the heights of Interrobang, Bayside still proves itself as one of the most consistent and creative punk groups you can find. It’s short but sweet and shakes its fist at the crushing pressure that life throws on us from time to time.
Be sure to take a listen here!
https://www.baysidebayside.com/music