I recently read an article declaring that Brand New should be uttered in the same breath as Nirvana and Radiohead as amongst the best bands of a generation. I don't necessarily disagree with this, I am a Brand New fan after all, but a similar argument could probably be made for many other 'underappreciated' bands with similarly sized fan bases. I should, however, get to the point.
Towards the end of that article, the author affirmed that he avoids listening to depressing music whilst depressed and as such had not given Science Fiction "much of a listen". This statement got me thinking; partly about the state of said author's mental health, more so about the article and the author's declaration of greatness having not listened to the album much, but most of all, is it really a depressing album?
Ok so the album is potentially Brand New's last, if the rumours of their 2018 disbandment are to be believed, which in itself is a depressing thought. I'm of the opinion though that if this is indeed their final album then it is not something to be depressed about, it's something to be enjoyed and savoured and to remain excited about for many years to come.
Brand New's music never truly reveals itself on first listen. The songs are deeply layered and over time the intricacies, nuances and oddities become more apparent and lyrics take on new meaning as circumstances and experiences change.
What's that you say? The songs are slow and dark and moody? Granted the band often deal with some pretty heavy subject matter and songs can take a while to build their momentum but that doesn't mean they're are depressing to listen to. The songs draw you in, they soar, they surge then they spit you back out; that's classic Brand New. There are some songs when listened to in isolation that could be described as depressing but Science Fiction is best enjoyed as a continuous journey from start to finish and by the time it's over I feel changed, yes, but not weighed down. Reassured maybe. To me this album is a joyous, fascinating and essential creation from a band at the top of their game and that's nothing to be sad about.
I'm still not entirely convinced this is the end for Brand New. Over the years they have become known for throwing in curveballs and part of me expects, maybe wants is more accurate, one to come fizzing in and hit us in the face as a reminder not to give up just yet.
Let me know what you thought of this article in the comments below. You can read the original article that inspired this post below and please remember to like, subscribe, share and follow!
https://noisey.vice.com/en_uk/article/43aawg/brand-new-best-band-generation-essay
