Brand New has been a staple in the post-hardcore and emo genres since its inception in 2000. With 'The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me' the band's third studio album released in November 2006, a new high water mark was achieved in the band's discography and remains a highly regarded and critically acclaimed work almost two decades later. Its success has been attributed to its diversity, raw emotional delivery, and lyrical depth that resonates across the rock milieu.
Brand New's legacy is undeniable. They have played a vital role in shaping the emo, post-hardcore, and alternative rock soundscapes, inspiring countless bands to explore deeper lyrical themes and push the boundaries of their genre. Their albums resonate with listeners, and their live performances have been noted as truly unforgettable experiences for fans who have seen them. Brand New's journey from Long Island's local punk scene to emo rock icons is a testament to their artistic evolution and commitment to pushing musical boundaries. Their discography, marked by introspective lyrics and sonic experimentation, has left an enduring imprint.
'The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me' was recorded from 2005 to 2006 in studios in Long Island and Massachusetts with producer Mike Sapone, who had been the producer on their highly acclaimed debut, and was released on November 21, 2006, through Interscope Records, making it their major label debut. The album arose following the online leaking of several unfinished demos that were meant to be early blueprints of the upcoming record.
Its legacy has grown significantly in the years since its release, and is now credited as one of the most important and influential albums in the genres of alternative rock, post-hardcore, and emo by musicians, critics, and music writers, and considered Brand New's best work by numerous sources including the band itself, the album shows the continuing progression and maturity as lyricists and songwriters they have undertaken since their debut by delving into darker subject matters such as existentialism, death, depression and religion.
The album is a multilayered composition that seamlessly weaves together unapologetically intense and raw subjects, the haunting opening notes of "Sowing Season" reverberate through your speakers, and the instruments from the subtle acoustic guitars to the thunderous drumming, are rendered with remarkable precision. Jesse Lacey's emotive vocals take on a haunting quality, drawing you into his lyrical labyrinth. Beginning with hushed vocals and a lone guitar, the track becomes more intense as lead singer Jesse Lacey begins singing the opening lines: "Was losing all my friends/hanging out on weekends." The track builds into a thunderous wall of sound, as Lacey sings: "Yeah, yeah we're gonna die like this, you know it's true." It's a powerful opening, immediately drawing the listener in and setting the tone for the rest of the album. However, the emotional intensity of the album is not just confined to its louder, rockier moments.
“Millstone" has been described as being about "not a loss of hope but rather a loss of innocence", citing lines such as "I used to pray that God was listening / I used to make my parents proud" as examples of Lacey's lyrics cutting to the core of human struggle and disillusionment.
"Jesus Christ" is about "analyzing crises of faith" referencing Biblical figures such as Thomas the Apostle and Elijah. Its lyrics touch on loneliness, the validity of the afterlife, and the struggle to maintain faith, perhaps influenced by Lacey's religious upbringing and his attending South Shore Christian School during his adolescence.
“Limousine” further showcases Lacey's ability to deliver emotive and melancholic lyrics, written about the death of seven-year-old Katie Flynn from the band's
hometown, while travelling home with her family after a wedding, their limousine was hit by a drunk driver a few miles from where Lacey was living at the time. Lacey has noted that the story resonated with him as he knew of people who drove drunk on the week the accident took place. At seven minutes and forty-two seconds, it remained Brand New's longest song until 2017's "Batter Up”. The track's bridge repeats itself seven times as Lacey counts up, one for each year of Flynn's life and "Limousine" is often cited as Brand New's greatest song.
Each layer of sound in the album from the delicate piano melodies in "Jesus Christ" to the explosive crescendos in "Degausser," is revealed in all its glory. It's an audiophile's dream, a sonic masterpiece that demands to be heard.
The album concludes with the haunting "Handcuffs," leaving you with a sense of catharsis and contemplation. The vinyl's warmth adds an extra layer of depth to this final track, making it a perfect way to close out your journey.
Brand New's 'The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me' on vinyl is a testament to this timeless album's enduring relevance and impact. Its ability to evoke deep emotions and reflect the complexities of the human psyche solidifies its place as a classic in the alternative music landscape. The vinyl edition, with its unparalleled sound quality, visual artistry, and collector's appeal, offers a unique and immersive way to experience this modern masterpiece. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a vinyl enthusiast seeking sonic perfection, this album belongs in your collection. It's a sonic journey through inner turmoil that you will remember.
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