Hey there! Today, I’m going to talk about a band that made a name for itself in the 2000s alternative metal scene. Known for their cinematic style and orchestral elements, the American alternative/nu-metal band RED was formed in 2002 by the unchanging trio of Michael Barnes, and brothers Anthony and Randy Armstrong. Since then, they’ve built a huge following. With a planned concert in Turkey on March 31, 2022, I think their fanbase here will grow even larger.

RED’s 2020 album, “Declaration,” featuring 10 tracks, left some fans puzzled. While some loved it, others felt the band’s style had changed and weren’t as impressed. After a three-year break, this album marks their first independent studio release, allowing RED more creative freedom. The change in their sound, shifting from alternative rock to metal, might be something the band always wanted to achieve but only managed to do with this album.

Before diving into the songs, I want to share my thoughts on the album cover. Though their discography generally doesn’t feature standout covers, “Declaration” felt below average compared to others. For someone unfamiliar with the band, it doesn’t seem like an attractive cover. I would’ve preferred something more striking like the covers of “Innocence and Instinct” or “Until We Have Faces.”

The album consists of very catchy songs overall. The opening track, “All For You,” is probably the most memorable, with a chorus that sticks after just a couple of listens. The song prominently features Barnes’ screams, which are much more aggressive than in previous albums. With its catchy chorus, Barnes’ screams, and accompanying strings, “All For You” became one of my favorite tracks on the album.

The second track, “Infidel,” is where alternative rock meets metal. I think it’s one of the most theatrical songs on the album. Barnes’ vocal style and attitude shift throughout the song, making it sound like there are 2-3 different characters. The back vocal screams add a nice touch, and I felt a lot of emotion from this song. “Infidel” might just be my favorite on the album.

I really liked the transitions in “Cauterize.” Up until the 2:45 mark, I didn’t feel much, but then Barnes’ scream hit me hard. If only the screams at the end of the song had gone up a few more steps in pitch, it would’ve been perfect. It would have been challenging but so satisfying.

The fourth track, “The War We Made,” is the most listened to song on the album. This might be because it’s the slowest tempo song on the album. RED has a unique millennium rock/metal style that they’ve carried through the years, making their albums feel timeless. “The War We Made” could have been one of those early 2000s alternative metal songs we all know by heart.

“The Evening Hate” was the most surprising song for me. I never expected such a breakdown. While it didn’t become one of my repeat-listen songs like the first four tracks, I enjoyed it every time I listened. Barnes’ vocal delivery and the closing violins were fantastic.

“Float” is a short, explosive song. It’s probably the most extreme and aggressive track on the album. Of course, they balanced it out with a more melodic chorus. RED manages to sneak some emotion into every song, no matter how intense it starts.

I didn’t like “The Victim” as much as the other songs; it would be one of my least favorites. The electronic beat at the beginning didn’t sit well with me, making it feel like a trap song. However, the thrash metal-like riff that enters towards the end was a nice touch. I wish they had started the song at that level.

The eighth track, “Sever,” was a collaboration with Breaking Benjamin’s Keith Wallen. This song takes a more subdued approach, but the orchestral elements in the background and Barnes’ vocals bring it to life.

My feelings about “Only Fight” are mixed. At first, I found it boring and monotonous, but after a few listens, I decided it was actually quite energizing. There’s a level of experimentation in this song that isn’t present in the others. Despite my love for chaos and experimentation, the layered, overlapping sounds towards the end were just grating. I don’t think I’ll ever really like “Only Fight.”

WE RIIIISEEEE! “From the Ashes” is the kind of song you hear during a pivotal movie scene. Imagine yourself in your favorite movie scene when you get to the chorus, and it fits perfectly. It’s a very emotional closing track with beautifully placed strings. It might not have had the same impact if I had heard it elsewhere on the album, but as the closing track, “From the Ashes” took me on an emotional journey. If you enjoy songs that make you dream, add this to your playlist.

And that’s how this album ended. If you like alternative bands and haven’t listened to RED before, don’t miss out—Declaration is short and easy to listen to. The catchy choruses make me excited for their concerts, and there’s nothing I look forward to more than a crowd singing along at a concert. Hopefully, we can all shout out together at concerts once the pandemic is over.

Give the album a chance, and for a sample, try “Infidel.” Happy listening!

4o

Asuna Pehlivan