In 2005 Bayside's sophmore release was one of the most exciting CDs of the year. I listened to it daily for months without growing bored. I played it for everyone I knew, and proclaimed Bayside the next big thing. Then tragedy struck. Bayside's tour bus was involved in an accident that would kill drummer John Holohan. Bayside's next release would be a somber acoustic EP, including the sober and gut wrenching new track "Winter". Bayside's bittersweet, self deprecating lyrics were in full force, and I wondered what the next release would bring.
2007 brings triumph. "The Walking Wounded" settles in somewhere between a battle cry and a victorious roar. From the opening moments of the title track it's apparent that Bayside has returned to challenge their demons, and even more to prove their mastery over all adversaries. Intricate guitars lines and a rhythm section that hits you like a gauntlet to the teeth proclaim that Bayside is back with a vengeance. If anything, the band is tighter, more focused and more mature than on previous releases.
"The walking Wounded" shows Bayside at their most creative. The oompa-polka section of the title track is nothing a fan could be prepared for. The guitar solo in the same song is an inspired piece of top-notch shredding. It sears its way into your brain and leaves you numb from the ears down. The xylophone track on "Head On a Plate" adds a unique tone to an already pleasing rock song. Many of the song on "The Walking Wounded" include impressive breaks that take the song in an unexpected direction, only to bring them back with greater focus seconds later. Musically, Bayside have become masters of their craft.
Bayside has always been known for their lyrics. To say Bayside lyrics are bitter does not do them justice. To say they are honest is also an understatement. Songs like "Masterpiece" from Bayside's Victory Records debut set the tone for soul-burningly bitter lyrics tempered with a realism that is almost embarrassing. It's like Bayside decided that lyrically Morrissey was their moving target, and even though they're not likely to hit the mark, they're damn sure going to try. Bayside tackles some interesting issues on "The Walking Wounded". Living in spite of all obstacles, spirituality ("Dear Your Holiness" - check out the string break), and the more obvious relationship songs ("Landing Feet First"). On "The walking Wounded" Bayside sounds like they're all grown up. They lyrics nearly scream "I know who I am, I'm screwed up and that's OK". Kudos to Bayside for providing truly challenging lyrics that should rally fans to rise up in rebellion against confusion, self loathing and personal demons.
There are too many high points on "The Walking Wounded" to mention all of them. This is the album I knew Bayside was capable of. As a fan, this is the one I've been waiting for. Bayside sound like seasoned professionals on this album. The theme of victory over all obstacles is well summed up in the mantra from "I And I", "I and I are taking control of our life". Bayside's 2005 release was a huge step forward from their debut "Sirens and Condolences". "The walking Wounded" is light years beyond either of their previous releases. Solid music, scream along lyrics and flawless production have honed Bayside's sound to razor sharpness.
Key Tracks: "I and I", "Pop(Ular) Science", "Landing Feet First"
Reviewed by Jim McDonald |
