Butcher Babies bring their mind-dazzling all on Nightbloom.
Las Vegas metalcore band Butcher Babies have transformed completely in the 17 years since their 2009 debut. It’s been two years since core vocalist Carla Harvey left the band, shaking up the dynamic completely. Their fifth studio album, Nightbloom, is the first following a lengthy three-year break.
This release holds a deeply personal place in vocalist Heidi Shepherd’s heart. The opening tune, “Lost In Your Touch,” is simply amazing. Its catchy chorus and expressive lyrics exemplify Shepherd’s pain centered around watching an ex-partner fall in love with someone new. Insane guitar riffs support the fantastic storytelling as Shepherd sadly sings, “So how’s she supposed to know that I love you? / ‘Cause every time you say you love her, I lose / And how’s she supposed to know how much I do? / ‘Cause I would do anything to be in her shoеs / Does she get lost in your touch likе I do?”
“Are You Waiting Up?” brings stunning melodies that match the style of Spiritbox, strengthening the album’s humanity. Its instrumentation builds captivatingly relatable emotion, thrilling listeners from start to finish. “Black Clouds Over Georgia” pays tribute to a different band, Halestorm, both lyrically and vocally.
“Leaving California” would’ve been nothing but passable were it not for Shepherd’s stunning vocal performance. Layered tones dominate the instrumentals, leaving listeners with newfound appreciation for Shepherd’s voice and lyrics that will touch their hearts forever.
The final track, “Black Dove,” may be repetitive, but it’s done so in a way that’s nothing less than artful. It painstakingly lets listeners know the album is coming to a close and ends the project on a new, darker note.
Butcher Babies put their best foot forward with Nightbloom. Each song brings something new to the table; the band is never afraid to show their varying styles of songwriting, instrumentation and vocal performance. Although it’s a strong entry when listened to solo, it’s one of those rare albums that will surely only sound better when performed live.
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