Self-proclaimed party goth dad, Frank Iero, has just put out his brand-new EP which has been confirmed to be the final recordings done by The Future Violents. As we know with Mr Iero, he has a flair for the dramatic and storytelling, an ability to take you on a journey, a respected veteran within the emo community one might say. So, as we wave goodbye to The Future Violents, lets see what story unfolds on this release.
As the EP opens, we are greeted by a dirty guitar opening track, drawing you in, and then it kicks off. A strong start from Violence, setting up the punk tone for the remainder of the record. Iero’s dramatic vocals tell the story of a classic unrequited relationship, the type you could easily walk away from, but you want them to know that they’re the ones missing out, not you. Frank isn’t looking for sympathy here. You can’t help but feel gripped.
Following track Sewerwolf continues with the dramatic with the story of “me against the world.” An awesomely heavy track that explores an individual’s journey to prove themselves against their inner demons, against those who look down on them. And with that epic title, courtesy of Frank’s son, in his own words: “The name was so filthy and enigmatic.”
We now go down a softer route with a cover of R.E.M’s Losing My Religion. Featuring the stunning vocals of Kayleigh Goldsworthy, the cover remains faithful to the original’s composition and usage of a mandolin guitar. It’s a break from the heaviness of the record and, to put it simply, it’s lovely. Nothing more needs to be said.
Heaven is a Place… then ends of the six-minute-long track, Record Ender. As it opens, we hear a bass guitar that gradually builds up before heavy grunge guitar and drums kick in. A strangely uplifting yet bittersweet track detailing the struggles of one person’s mental state and place in the world, but despite this they are willing to do and lose everything for a certain someone in their life. Whether a loved one, a friend, or family, they will always be there. A sweet song and promise.
A fitting farewell to The Future Violents. The record takes us to a bit of everywhere, looking at both the highlights and failures of real life, but reminding us that things happen for a reason. We’re all human at the end of the day. An overall stunning EP and we cannot wait to hear what comes next for Frank Iero.
