Sleigh Bells, originating from New York, has finally released their highly anticipated album, “Reign of Terror.” There was much hype surrounding this album since the success of, “Treats,” in 2010. This group from Brooklyn met in 2008 and since has been composed of Derek Edward Miller and Alexis Krauss.
Since the founding of the group there has not been much of a departure from the heavy rock and hip-hop beats and has used the same formula with a few twists for this album. “Treats,” had a metal, pop, rock, and synth based sound which was mainly found to be a sound that was used ironically to mock the mainstream. It was received well by fans but the critics had been stunned and confused by this new “experimental” genre. With this album they have not departed from the heavy beats and instead amplified their sound, which seems hard to believe, and have added more guitar and experimental beats.
The album starts off with a live version of the track with the audience roaring and Alexis building up the audience while the electric guitars start playing louder creating and intense build with the beat. It has immense power and raw energy that is louder than the screaming and chanting of the audience. Though the majority of their tracks sound simple and melodic, it’s the simplicity which makes them that much more entertaining.
Though the first few tracks are an intense and amazing loudness, “End of the Line,” is nearly a pop anthem which gives the feeling of déjà vu. It is a softer track with more pop vocals still using the heavy bass and softer guitar. This is one of the best produced tracks in the album and is the one which shows the diversity of genres in this album giving off that 80s vibe from bands like “The Cure.”
Though the songs start turning down the volume as we near the end of the album we reach the single, “Comeback Kid.” This song is only to be made even better by the bands performance this past week on Saturday Night Live. The catchy lyrics and beat make it an astounding tracks which talks about the person who always thinks they are right by saying, “I know you tried so hard, but you can’t even win. You gotta try a little harder, you’re the comeback kid” This song is only to be followed by one of the harder tracks of the album, “Demon,” which gives the definition and expectations of the sound in the title of the track.
Not only are there different sounds in each track, but they are unique even though they are not the raver bashing songs which ensued us in, “Treats.” “Road to Hell,” is one of these in which the beats are hard and moving but still holds a calm composure due to the lyrics and vocals used as well as the wailing guitar. This is then followed by other tracks which slow down and are more tranquil and calm revealing lyrics which are more profound and easily interpreted to be personal.
The lyrics are melancholy and have a sharp delivery due to the composure of the tracks on the album. This can be said to be a rebellious anthem that ensues the mainstream culture and abuses it creating a new sound which can only be described as a hip-hop, rock, pop infusion. “Reign of Terror,” is its own album which has no true equal and is a great step for Sleigh Bells. Though this album is composed of a multitude of genres as well as incorporates them into each track, it is one in which most people will have admiration for.
- Sleigh Bells
itsoundsbetterlive.wordpress.com 