Wednesday 13 is back to his roots with new album “Mid Death Crisis”, which is set to drop on April 25th. This is his tenth studio album, and is best described as campy, creepy, and incredibly catchy.
The introductory track, “There is no such thing as monsters”, is dark and eerie with sounds of feedback and effective delay to create that sinister atmosphere. This track was perfectly placed at the start of the album as it builds suspense and anticipation, leaving listeners eager to hear what else is in store for the remainder of the album.
The transition from “There’s no such thing as monsters” and “Decease and Desist” is abrupt, although it works well as it shifts the mood and energy of the album. The vocals on this track give a classic punk sound with a theatrical delivery, continuing with the campy horror themes, the lyrics “everyone dies, decease and desist” are clever and lightly stray away from the corny lyricism typically seen in punk rock tunes.
“When the Devil Commands” keeps a similar vibe yet is heavily focused on satanism in its lyrics- he sings “forgive me father, for I have sinned,” which is an ironic line for the song and themes presented throughout the album yet is satisfying because of this fact.
With its metallic Goth punk intensity and portrayal of intense rage and agony, I’m sure “Rotting Away” will excite Wednesday 13’s listeners and perhaps entice a slight headbang. The lyrics, “I can’t wait till you’re in your grave and you’re cold and rotting” are dark and disturbing but become catchy throughout the tune. I also thoroughly enjoyed how the melody line on this track complemented the bass line.
Within the first few seconds of “No Apologies” I knew that I would enjoy this track, as it opens with a descending guitar riff and fast drum beat. “You’re a victim and you’re always right…now we’re laughing because the joke is on you” in his raspy voice makes this track potentially the biggest f**** you anthem, the mocking sounds, “na na na na na” also adds to this.
“Decapitation”- striking title and a catchy lead riff. The backing vocals on this track caught me off guard, but definitely served as a shift of vibe which I enjoyed. “Blood Storm”- this track is filled with energy, with a heavy, metallic Goth punk vibe.
“Xanaxtasty”- the lyrics are catchy and intense with meaning. This tune explores the sense of self and relationships with recreational drugs as he sings “I want you to make me feel like I’m not even myself….am I insane or am I just crazy”. This song strays away from the other themes in the album and gives a raw account of someone who is trying to suppress their emotions.
“In Misery”- this song is arguably my favourite on the entire album. The feedback in the intro and the accompaniment from guitar and drums is incredibly strong. The guitar on this track gives a melancholy vibe to the song which is fitting considering the lyrics are so heart-wrenching as he sings “we’re the worst for each other but I will never tell”. The tune nicely fades out when it comes to an end.
“My Funeral”- This song would probably cause concern if listened to around others. It is angsty and fuelled with hatred for the world and life itself. He undoubtedly adds a shock factor with the lyrics “I can’t wait for my funeral”.
“Sick and Violent”- Excellent closing track. This tune is terrifying in its lyrics as he continues to bring the shock factor in his tunes. I thoroughly enjoyed the recurrence of the “nananana”, as it was somewhat unexpected but tied the whole album together. Wednesday 13 said that he wanted to write lyrics that would terrify his mother if she stumbled across this album, and I think he certainly achieved this. This album is powerful overall since it features a good mix of songs that will electrify audiences as well as some deeper themes throughout.
I would rate this album a solid 8/10.
Pre-Order the New Album, Mid Death Crisis,HERE:
Reviewer – Katie Monks @K4tie7