Hail to the Thief - Don't Look Down

Hail To The Thief

Don't Look Down
self-released; 2013

3.5 out of 5

By Eva Cantillo

This collection of songs is brought to us by a band right out of south Jersey, and they really emulate their origin in the sound that makes up their album Don’t Look Down. While listening to the album, bands like Say Anything and Green Day come to mind, as the tunes in this album are very punk rock. The music also seems to transcend time, as it is reminiscent of punk rock from the 90’s and early 2000’s.

The theme behind the album is one of rebellion, something that is first nature to the genre of punk rock. It seems like the musicians of the band have felt strife in their lives as people have questioned the relevancy of their musical adventures. This served as inspiration as Hail to the Thief fights back with their lyrics and their hitting bass lines.

The first song on the EP “Duke” starts off with very strong guitar chords then following suit the chorus of the song is anchored by “…are we capable of doing anything other than feeling numb, treating each other like we're oh so dumb.” This song is a solid dissatisfaction of perhaps the band’s circle of friends, or maybe just an overall observation on the interactions of society. Either way, the song is making a point about how people are not behaving socially as they naturally should.

Another song on the album “138.5” is about a relationship falling apart or not going as planned; “I can’t stand watching you decay.” The song also has the addition of keyboard synths and the vocalist explores various notes and tones as the song carries on. This band truly represents a punk rock alternative band as each song is an ode to some type of dissatisfaction with the world. Each song on the album has a certain topic to comment upon in which most people can relate. This album is definitely great background music for getting pumped or releasing any pent-up anger.

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