Review by Shadowdoom9 (Andi) for Volumes - Happier? (2021)
The first time I heard Volumes was when I was assembling the Revolution playlists. And when I heard one of the songs from this album, I couldn't have been any happier. We'll get to that song as the review moves along...
Following their 2017 album Different Animals, some things have happened, including changes in lineup. Brothers Gus and Diego Farias left the band one by one, and Diego tragically passed away shortly after he left. RIP... Luckily, or unluckily depending on some fans' opinions, their earlier co-lead vocalist Michael Barr has returned, now side-by-side with Myke Terry from the previous album. This one, Happier? shall impress people with their djent-ish alt-metalcore!
"FBX" starts off atmospheric before the intensity of the vocals and riffing rise. It's clear that Volumes won't take any bullsh*t, as the tempo and rage build up gradually. "Malevolent" heads into more crushing groove energy. Nothing ever relents! Then "Bend" bends the stylistic rules as a more melodic song. The chorus soars smoothly.
"Get Enough" is a more powerful experience. The beat and melody shall stay in your head for a long time. "Lets Me Down" is more intricate in the drums and vocals. It's quite emotional! "Man on Fire" is a rifftastic highlight. After a Spiritbox-esque intro, we have some brutal verses with vocals by Barr and Terry, with the latter hitting searing highs. Probably the best of this album! I love the f***ing killer riffing at over the one-minute mark, and the mind-f***ing breakdown over another minute later. The lyrics seem to protest against racism and violence. "Weighted" has more weight from the scream/clean balance. The more complex elements help keep up the stability.
"See You Again" is more uplifting than that song from one of the Fast & Furious movies. It's still quite heavy with commanding vocals. "Into You (Hurt)" has perfect ominous riffing and serene vocals. Then the midsection gets darker. "Void" has more impactful beats and chorus. The title finale is what got me interested in this band. An incredible song to jam along to in a happy Summer. This emotional groove can pretty much make me shed tears of joy. I really love the lyrics, including that magical chorus.
The band stays consistent in this nicely memorable album. Happier? shows Volumes fighting against the conventions of music and staying strong amongst their peers. There's no doubt that the band's career will shine bright!
Favorites: "FBX", "Malevolent", "Get Enough", "Man on Fire", "Into You (Hurt)", "Happier?"