If ‘Never Neverland‘ doesn’t make the list of top albums of 2024, there’s something very wrong in the world.
The lead-off track, “Butterfly,” whisks the listener to a world of strong melodic arrangements twinned with vocalist, Gabriel Franco’s instantly recognisable tone, making quite clear the band’s capability in driving an atmosphere.
It is followed by ‘Momma Likes The Door Closed’ one of the standout singles featuring heavy, chugging guitars with melodic, almost hypnotic vocal lines. It comes out as the encapsulation of Unto Others’ ability to weld brutality with beauty and a heavy dose of satyr, quite a palpable duality throughout the album.
Another standout track, ‘Sunshine’ is an anthemic ’80s-inspired track with a modern twist, with a super catchy chorus. The band push their sonic experimentation even further, as unconventional song structures and ghostly guitar riffs create a beautiful dichotomy of haunting, joyous and at times heartbreaking soundscapes.
The title track closing the album, ‘Never Neverland‘ can almost feel climactic-a reflection of what was formerly discussed throughout the band’s journey. It evokes influences from Post-Punk to New Romantic, before erupting into powerful crescendos. It’s a perfect summation of the album’s thematic and musical complexity.
Bonus version’s of the album contain a wonderful cover of Ramones classic, ‘Pet Cemetery‘, which, I’m sure would get the stamp of approval from, Johnny, Joey, Dee Dee, and Tommy.
Overall, Never Neverland shows Unto Others is not afraid to push the envelope as the genres seamlessly mesh and delve into dark, emotional depths with their music. It’s a record that is a testament to the bands ability to keep evolving, and to be honest, is a breath of fresh air among the repetitive regurgitated echo chamber that Metal seems to find itself in every now and again.
Unto Others are one of the most innovative and exciting bands in the scene today and ‘Never Neverland‘ is simply an outstanding body of work. 5/5
Pick up your copy here.
Tracklisting
Butterfly
Momma Likes The Door Closed
Angel of the Night
Suicide Today
Sunshine
Glass Slippers
Fame
When the Kids Get Caught
Flatline
Time Goes On
Cold World
I Am the Light
Farewell…
Raigeki
Hoops
Never, Neverland
UNTO OTHERS:
Gabriel Franco – Vocals, Guitars
Sebastian Silva – Guitars
Brandon Hill – Bass
Colin Vranizan – Drums
Oran O’Beirne
www.overdrive.ie 2024
