Release Date: September 22, 2023 Genre: Indie Rock Label: Independent
Dead Broke's latest offering, When The Night Comes In, is a testament to the band's evolution and a refreshing departure from their earlier works. This self-released album, produced by Alex Bonenfant, engineered by Calvin Hartwick, mixed by Milan Sarkadi, and mastered by Reuben Cohen, is a sonic journey through a variety of influences and emotions. The band, hailing from rural New Brunswick but now firmly rooted in Toronto, has crafted a collection of songs that showcase their maturity in both songwriting and sound.
The album kicks off with "Not Yours To Take," a thrilling lead single that immediately grabs your attention. Michael Bright's lyrics capture the hustle and expectations of modern life, offering an empowering message that "I'm not yours to take." The song's grunge-inspired vocal approach and echoing guitars, reminiscent of Billy Corgan in The Smashing Pumpkins' earlier days, make it an engaging opener that sets the tone for the rest of the record.
"Drown" follows, and it's a more atmospheric and shoegaze-influenced track, with haunting choruses and a sense of spaciness that creates a dreamy sonic landscape. The band's willingness to explore different sonic textures is evident here.
The album's second single, "Abattoir," introduces synths into the mix, a departure from the band's typical punk-inspired rock. The song's arrangement is a thrilling journey, and Michael Bright's lyrics draw from his personal experience of working in a meat packing facility. It's a song that captures the feeling of breaking free from constricting and isolating environments.
With "Not There Yet," the band takes a detour to the rock sounds of the past, invoking the spirit of the '70s and '80s. The dynamic between Michael and Rachel Bright's vocals adds depth to the track, showcasing their versatility as artists.
The penultimate track "Luxor Shoes" harkens back to the early days of punk, with its raw and unapologetic energy. The production gives it a nostalgic touch, making it feel like a hidden gem from the past.
The album's grand finale, "Salvation In The Neon Light," is a nearly seven-minute epic that encapsulates the band's sonic exploration. The first half has a muffled, retro sound as if it were recorded on tape, while the second half is punchy, in your face, yet somehow drawn back, emotional and extremely poignant. It demonstrates the band's ability to transition seamlessly between different moods and styles. It's a standout track that could be considered Dead Broke's magnum opus.
When The Night Comes In is a testament to the band's growth as songwriters and their refusal to be pigeonholed into a single genre. It's an album that takes listeners on a diverse and captivating journey, showcasing Dead Broke's willingness to embrace new influences while staying true to their roots. For those seeking a fresh and dynamic musical experience, this album is a must-listen. Dead Broke has truly arrived at a new level of confidence in their songwriting, and it shows in every note of this impressive record.
Check out more from Dead Broke: Website: https://www.deadbrokeband.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deadbrokeband
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deadbrokeband/
Bandcamp: https://dead-broke.bandcamp.com/