Asking Alexandria return with their self-titled fifth record. And the return of frontman Danny Worsnop. Much has been documented about the band and its members over the years including voicing concerns over the change in sound. With this album, we see the most varied sound from the quintet.
Opening the self-titled record is Alone In A Room. A more mellow and anthemic side to Asking Alexandria, it’s a track you can imagine everyone singing along to in arenas. It’s catchy and is taking a bit of the trend of having some form of electronics with the overall sound to the chorus. Into The Fire has a melodic hard rock feel to it and brings back some harsh screams, paying homage to the older eras of the band. If you want a bit of a dance to AA then Hopelessly Hopeful is one for you.
Rise Up‘s chorus is absolutely massive! Under Denver brings things to a rapid halt with mellow harmonies and for a moment, the arena-ready record bears all as Danny’s haunting vocals shine through. I Am One brings out some anger and intricate guitar work.
Overall this is one big album! The return of Danny Worsnop seems to have truly revitalised Asking Alexandria‘s sound! Each track is as anthemic as the last and while the sceptics may not be fully convinced by the change of direction with this record, there is still plenty of ways the band pay homage to their earlier, heavier sound. For me though, this may just be Asking Alexandria‘s best work to date.