UK natives Neck Deep have released their fourth studio album All Distortions Are Intentional today, one of their most successful bodies of work to date that is sure to mark the beginning of what will be an especially creative period in the bands’ history.
Neck Deep are known for speaking up about controversial topics in their music. The album introduces fans to this new era by saying “welcome to my dark despair//everyone here is a nightmare”; a line that is seemingly paying homage to their previous record, The Peace And The Panic which was almost entirely politically driven in the wake of Trump’s election and how it rocked the political climate nationwide.
All Distortions Are Intentional introduces fans to the poppier side of Neck Deep, with songs such as “Sick Joke” and hip-hop inspired interlude, “Quarry”. Lyrics such as “but it feels so good with you on me, baby// yeah it feels so good when you know” (“When You Know”) and “I was not me until I discovered you for the first time” (“What Took You So Long?”), showcase the bands softer, more romantic side that strays from the political aspects of the album.
“Pushing Daisies” ties the entire body of work up with a red bow, making references to various songs on the album and ending with Barlow preaching “fuck society, fuck your politics, fuck yourself, and fuck the way it is”, ending the album the same way it started; with political and social commentary on the world we are currently living in.
Neck Deep’s ongoing success is due to their infectious songs that don’t stray too far from their roots. The band’s growth as songwriters and musicians is apparent in every song, especially in the way the band masks modern problems with old-school pop punk flare; it’s poppy, it’s mature, it makes me want to dance, and honestly, it’s just classic Neck Deep. The fast vocals, the catchy riffs, the loud drums: it’s all there. You’ll get the same experience watching the band packed into a 500 cap venue or at a sold out Wembley Stadium because the songs are THAT energetic and empowering.
All Distortions Are Intentional was released to the world today! You can stream the album on Spotify here. To keep up with Neck Deep, follow the band on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.