AFI Haven’t Lost Their Dark Touch

AFI are no secret in the music industry. The Blood Album is their tenth studio album and although their sound has changed over the years, the group’s newest LP has something to please any and all of their fans.

The Blood Album starts out on a darker note with “Dark Snow,” with lyrics that include, “my afterlife…is black and cold,” and, “they carried me out when the lights went out.”  This track gives the listener a taste of the deeper lyrical components featured on the rest of the album. For example, “Hidden Knives” is a standout, offering an upbeat rock sound mixed with dark lyrics about an imagined murder scene, which is fitting considering the album title. The chorus rings lyrics of, “So poorly I’ve hidden knives/You will find them/You will find them.”

An instant favorite is “Still a Stranger,” which perfectly balances an acoustic sound with their signature brand of punk rock. The acoustic guitar is weaved in and out of this more hardcore atmosphere. Yet, “White Offerings” could be the one that wins punk rock fans over the most. With heavy guitar riffs and edgier vocals from lead singer Davey Havok, this track is reminiscent of the band’s past work. “Pink Eyes,” on the other hand, stands out because of tempo changes, while its chorus is filled with Havok’s raspy vocals, now layered with cool harmonies. And for a track with a slightly more alternative feel, listeners would do well to tune in to “Snow Cats.” It maintains a slower beat and softer drums. With lyrics such as, “You say I am not scared enough/prepared enough/you wanted me in distress,” diving into the artist’s vulnerability.

With its excellent mix of the punk and alternative rock, The Blood Album has something to satisfy anyone who considers themselves to be a fan of band.