Shallow Side, Reflections Review
Shallow Side have consistently evolved since they emerged from Cullman, Alabama, bringing their unique blend of alternative metal to the forefront. Their journey, which began with the 2012 EP Home Today, has seen them release various projects, including cover songs, singles, and a well-received full-length album, Saints & Sinners. The band’s ability to evolve within the rock genre has earned them a loyal following and significant streaming numbers, surpassing 50 million streams globally.
Their latest offering, Reflections, released on July 19, 2024, sees the band continue their musical exploration with a lineup of 11 tracks that delve into personal and universal themes. The album features production by notable figures such as Kile Odell, Chris Dawson, James Beattie, and others, ensuring a polished and impactful sound. With standout tracks like “The Worst Kind,” “Filters,” and “You’re the Reason,” the album is poised to make a significant impact on rock radio and beyond.
“The Worst Kind” sets the tone with a distinctive use of a telephone conversation, creating a suspenseful atmosphere. The song explores themes of deception and betrayal, using vivid metaphors. It’s a powerful start that showcases the band’s lyrical depth and musical intensity.
“Filters” (feat. Elias Soriano of Nonpoint) brings an additional layer of dynamism to the album. The track opens with a soft piano intro before launching into a robust hard rock feel, driven by the energetic drumming of Heath Fields, the solid bass lines of Sam Bower, and a full-bodied riff by Codey Red. The melody is memorable, and the production by Kile Odell, particularly on the vocals, adds an intriguing layer of interest. The lyrics explore the concept of masks and filters, both in a literal and metaphorical sense, delving into the disconnect between public personas and private realities. Elias Soriano’s gritty contribution adds an edge to the track, enhancing its impact.
“You’re the Reason” is an emotionally charged song reflecting on a failed relationship, with themes of regret and introspection. The chorus is particularly impactful, driven by Eric Boatright’s powerful vocals and the bands solid backing. It’s a track that resonates with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.
“The Fall” introduces an ambient and layered song construction, offering a beautiful contrast to the album’s heavier elements. The lyrics speak about the importance of having a supportive partner during challenging times.
Featuring multiple guitar textures alongside big drums and bass, “Over” explores the emotional disconnect that can arise in relationships, particularly in the digital age. The lyrics poignantly highlight the consequences of an obsession with technology, showcasing the growing distance it can create between individuals. The contrast between the verse and the chorus is particularly striking, demonstrating Shallow Side’s attention to detail in their songwriting.
“Something to Believe” has a mix of electronica and post-grunge that underpins this track, which explores themes of hope and motivation. The song is rich with metaphors about searching for a purpose or spark to keep moving forward. Contrary to its title, “Nothing Left” offers a robust continuation of the album’s exploration of toxic relationships. The heavy rock sound underscores lyrics that liken a draining relationship to a parasitic one, offering a raw and unfiltered look at emotional entanglement.
Slowing down the tempo, “Antilight” is a cleverly worded song about someone who drains positivity from your life. The softer vocals and acoustic elements provide a necessary respite from the album’s heavier tracks, showcasing the band’s versatility.
“Every River” returns to a modern rock tone, using water imagery to depict the erosion of one’s spirit in a negative relationship. The metaphors are particularly poignant, painting a vivid picture of emotional turmoil and resilience. The driving drums and band hits add a sense of urgency and excitement, while the vocals and backing vocals are expertly mixed, creating a rich, immersive sound. The subtle electronic dance influences blend beautifully with the harder rock elements, adding a unique layer to the track that enhances its overall impact.
A reflective track about self-examination, “No One Wins” uses mirrors as a metaphor for self-awareness. It ties back to the themes of their previous work, Saints & Sinners. The album closes on a hopeful note with “Resurrection,” a track about redemption and the possibility of rebirth after hitting rock bottom. The vivid imagery conveys a sense of finality and hope, leaving a lasting impression.
Shallow Side has once again demonstrated their ability to evolve and grow with each release, and Reflections showcases their commitment to pushing and expanding their sound. Eric Boatright’s vocal versatility is a standout feature, seamlessly transitioning from gruff rock tones to softer melodies. This range allows the band to explore diverse sounds through solid songwriting. The production quality, enhanced by contributions from multiple seasoned producers, ensures a polished and impactful listening experience. That’s the short of it!
Connect with Shallow Side: Website |
Reflections
July 19, 2024
Thermal Entertainment LLC
9.1