Editors – Violence

Editors cleverly break away

Starting their new album, Violence, with the dreary “Cold,” Editors seemingly set themselves up to dive into an exploration of darkness. Singing “It’s a lonely life” on the opening track, the album starts off with the usual gloom we’ve come to expect from Editors. The scattered synths and brooding guitar on top of the lyrics sound just like a typical Editors’ song, and one wonders if the band has reverted to their old tendencies before exploring the rest of the album.

They do successfully break away from their usual style throughout the album, especially with the intensity of “Hallelujah (So Low).” With a guitar riff accompanying their abrasive electronic mix, the sound is reminiscent of a modern day Muse. On “Magazine,” the band takes aim at political figures with the biting commentary, “Now talk the loudest with a clenched fist / Top of a hit list, gag a witness / Just talk the loudest with a clenched fist / Yeah, you talk the loudest.” This track is another example of Editors’ proclivity to create large, anthem-like choruses that enthrall with their sound and message. “Magazine” is perhaps the perfect example of how the band mixes modern sensibilities and sounds with their own unique songwriting. This track is the best proof that Editors know how to play to their strengths while still reaching for new highs.

This is no doubt the most adventurous Editors’ album, as they once again enlist synths as the main sound on their title track. While more upbeat tracks like “Darkness at the Door” do feel out of place on this record, the overall album is a fresh experience from a band that has unsuccessfully tried reinventing itself before. With the awesome closing track “Belong” and throughout the album, The Editors remind you why they deserve your attention despite a few hiccups along the way.