The Bigger Lights’ ‘Battle Hymn’ – ALBUM REVIEW
The Bigger Lights have come quite a long way within the course of the last year. With strength at hand, the band took off quite a gap of time from their intensive touring spree in order to seriously get down to business in writing and recording a new record. This new record, titled Battle Hymn, drops tomorrow on iTunes but has been streaming exclusively through Property of Zack for a few days now in order to give fans an opportunity to grasp its intentions ahead of time. Since the release of their debut self-titled album last year, The Bigger Lights have proved to the world that they have the power to change music and that is exactly what they did with this new album. Give it a listen at Property of Zack and make sure you pick it up tomorrow on iTunes!
The album begins with hard-hitting guitar instruments in a track titled Terrible World, Give Me More! In this track, lead singer Christopher Talley’s voice is at an all time high, proving to fans that this anticipated album was well worth the wait. Taking a new turn with their sound, the boys in The Bigger Lights have transformed from a pop band into a rock and roll sound that is bound to have get you on your feet. Though the turn in their sound was risky, it proves to be well worth the chance and we’re only one track in. Never Mistake a Suit for a Friend begins with an eerie carnival like sound, shortly kicked in with guitar riffs and Talley’s unique vocals yet again. Appearing to be more of a focus on the instruments present in this track, a mix up in short guitar segments and outstanding bass notes are killer as the lyrics that Talley sings throw it all together for a song that will knock your socks off. Living Martyrdom begins more mellow with a uniquely written guitar solo, soon accompanied by catchy lyrics sung by Talley. Group vocals are present in this track as well, which are perfectly paired with guitar segments by Chris McPeters and JK Royston along with bass from Dan Mineart, showing off the true talent that is present within each individual in the band. Three tracks in, it is clear that The Bigger Lights have grown stronger than ever over the course of the last year and they have taken turns that are sure to have fans at an all time high.
Bullet Believers (Rah Rah Rah) begins with a sound that is similar to what you would expect to hear on a soundtrack from a movie straight out of the 1980’s. Group vocals singing “rah rah rah” kick in almost immediately, right in tune with the fast paced guitar riffs that are very strong. Lyrically this track is one that many will find themselves relating to as they choose to live life to the fullest. As the track is drawing to a conclusion, there is a truly unique guitar solo by McPeters that shows off his true talent. This is one of the strongest tracks on the album, and will definitely be a fan favorite all around. Dear in the Headlights begins with a much slower pace, as a piano is brought into play for the first time on the record. Adding this unique touch to the track really brings it together to be one of the most powerful tracks composed in the history of The Bigger Lights. Talley plays a part in this as well as he shows off his vocal range in a much more angelic sound which pairs perfectly with the melodious guitars that are heard in the background. The lyrics in this track are strong as well, which will have listeners finding themselves relating to the music without a doubt. As the pace picks right back up with a guitar segment, Salt kicks right into gear into a sound that is much more familiar to fans. Bringing in a bit of the pop essence that was very present with their last release, this is another track that will go over very well with fans. The chorus of this track sings “I don’t need your therapy, just give me the drugs or leave me on the floor to bleed” which relates very closely to a majority of people. This track is all about needing someone to be there for you, which is something that everybody needs. As the record draws to an all too soon conclusion, it is clear that The Bigger Lights are back and stronger than ever.
Send Me a Mircale begins with a sound similar to Bullet Believers, but with a country twist. Proving their versatility yet again, The Bigger Lights kick it up another notch with the sounds present in this track. Taking a step away from the rock and roll rhythm that has continued through Battle Hymn, sounds coming from the instruments of each individual members’ have gone country. Country vibes seem to work very well with their sound as they conquer yet another genre. The chorus in this track is arguably one of the strongest on the album, bringing together every strength that is present in the band. Halo, I’m Not Coming Home is the concluding track on the album and begins in a fast paced grasp that is sure to have you curious about what you are about to hear. Vocals by Talley hit a lower note throughout bridges and come back up during the chorus as he soothes listeners into a smile that is uncontrollable whilst listening. Soft guitars turn into rock and roll midway through the song, picking up Talley’s vocals along the way. With relatable lyrics and insanely talented instrumentation, The Bigger Lights have taken a turn in the best direction possible with the release of their second full length album, Battle Hymn.
Overall Rating: 8.5/10
Favorite Tracks: Bullet Believers (Rah Rah Rah), Dear in the Headlights, Salt