Bayside’s Cult reinforces what it means to fight for what drives you; facing your fears and obstacles head on without any possible chances for regrets. The New York punk/rock band delivers a stellar—fast paced album that once again, continues to break new ground.
Cults opens up with “Big Cheese,” which taunts you with little snippets; wondering what lies ahead. Guitarist, Jack O’Shea, has found one incredible muse because this track lights up a show; it gives you such a rush, making you eager for what the band has set up. One cannot forget Chris Guglielmo and his drums that started it all. This opening track just makes you feel so monumentally excited from start to finish.
Following this impressive start is “Time Has Come,” highlighting Anthony Raneri’s vocals; capturing the raw feelings that pour out from these lyrics. Crashing like fierce grandiose ocean waves. Incredible doesn’t even begin to describe it. The lyrics, brought out by Raneri’s vocals, have me in perpetual awe. It’s one hell of a calling.
Another track, “Pigsty,” places you on this carrousel of nostalgia, almost dark as the band captures the bottom we’ve all escaped from. Raneri’s lyrical talents shine immensely. The whole track is elegantly composed; the band’s talents are all heard—all present. “Transitive Property,” which follows, highlights self-awareness; a perfect anthem for finding your inspiration. I’m captivated by Raneri’s vocals and Nick Ghanbarian’s baseline. O’Shea’s guitar solo brings the track to the moon; it’s flawless.
Next is “Stuttering,” conveying the “love-song” dilemma; no one knows what to say, but the band does. Raneri sings, “I’m the voice of the depressed, that’s what everyone expects, give the people what they want and it hangs over your head.” It gives you shivers. The harmonies are perfectly executed. It reinforces how no one quite knows what to say, but people still except something; almost beg for someone to have the answer in under a second.
One track that truly stands out is “Objectivist on Fire,” a hauntingly and beautiful true track. The brief sadden strings, along with the lyrics, echo knowing the truth about that reflection in the mirror. It’s slow-paced; painting the crooked cage some of us succumb to.
Overall, Bayside’s Cult is an unforgettable album. It asks you to face the mirror and look at who you really are. The band walks you through this journey wholeheartedly and it is strengthening. Cult can get you out of any cage and make you realize that your fears cannot stop you. Never. When you’re in the darkest corners of your mind you fight–along while listening to this album. Every element fused inside Cult is phenomenal. The band tells you that no matter what, it’s alright. This album is golden.
Rating: 5/5
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