Plainview Review

Date: March 13, 2022

Band: Plainview

EP Title: Nightlife

Author: Valentino Petrarca 

Rating: 4/5

For Fans Of: Taking Back Sunday, My Chemical Romance, Thursday, Bayside,

 

 

Review:

Plainview is a new band breaking through the emo/pop-punk scene. Especially in recent years, the genre has seen an incredible renaissance. Bands like Stand Atlantic, First and Forever, State Champs, and so many others have made the scene popular again. Most of these artists capture everything that has, and continues, to make the scene incredible. Does Plainview have what it takes? I’m thrilled to say yes. Their new EP is a breath of fresh air. 

Nightlife feels very nostalgic while also pushing new boundaries. The most important aspect to anything in the pop-punk/emo scene is always the choruses. These choruses are so enormous and full of energy. Plainview understands why this genre is so beloved and gives their own take on it. Even though this release is only 5 songs, every track has its own life and unique style. Plainview are definitely on their way to breaking through the scene in a big way. 

The highlights of this album are easily the more aggressive tracks like How Much Can One Heart Take and Feed From You. When the band has vicious drums and angry vocals, they are a force to be reckoned with. These tracks feel like straight adrenaline to the heart. It is such an original and invigorating experience. The more melodic pop-punk tracks are also stellar. They have such a strong personality and rhythm that makes the tracks infectious. The music itself is done very well all throughout. 

Another aspect that makes this release so great is the pacing. I never got bored once. The entire runtime kept me intrigued from start to finish. Everything is placed out flawlessly. Nightlife also has a very high replayability. From the second I first heard the album I immediately wanted to put it on again. Another important aspect to the pacing are the heavy moments. There are screaming and brutal aspects weaved throughout the otherwise squeaky clean pop-punk. These heavy moments never feel out of place or shoehorned in. Everything has a place on the EP for a reason.

The only negative about the EP is the lyrics. I have heard all of these themes and messages before in similar ways. However, the music is so fun and catchy, the lyrics do not alter my enjoyment of the EP a great deal. It is just a slight negative that must be addressed. 

Even though it's only 15 minutes, it's worth every second. This is an incredible time for anyone who even remotely enjoys the genre. I do believe this band is destined for great things. They may be small, but they have that spark in their music. There is genuine passion and respect for a scene that comes in the form of 5 very engaging tracks. Nightlife is definitely not a waste of your time and should be listened to as soon as possible.

 

Posted in: Album Review, Reviews, WSOU, WSOU Exclusive