A lot can happen in a decade, from breakups and personal growth to illness and death, or even a global pandemic. So when a band releases their first album in ten years, you know it’s going to be one full of substance and genuineness. California alternative rock band Alien Ant Farm accomplishes just that with their sixth full-length album, mAntras (Megaforce Records). The record reintroduces the quartet through eleven tracks that detail everything they have been up to since their last record Always And Forever in 2014.
For this album, dynamic songs that take listeners on a spiritual journey is the name of the game (hence the title mAntras). “The Wrong Things” kicks off the record with wistful echoing guitars over a peculiar synth effect. Vocalist Dryden Mitchell’s voice is distinct in the commanding presence it holds, and this is evident from the moment he starts singing. Despite the track’s smooth flow, it has some unpredictable twists and turns in the genre, even going from soft Reggae to dissonant Metal at one point—all while maintaining the imaginative rock sound Alien Ant Farm is known for.
The slow yet upbeat “Glasses” is one that is hard to forget with its half-time feel, tasteful use of both acoustic and electric guitar, and the catchy delivery of the line “How the hell you keep your glass so damn full when mine is always empty?” It’s choruses like this that will have you inadvertently singing along whether you’re a fan of the style or not. “Storms Over” also uses a clever combo of acoustic and electric, using the former for funky rhythmic feel and the latter for fuzz-driven experimental chaos.
The most unconventional song of the album is undoubtedly the closing title track. The song sounds like a bunch of eccentric leftover ideas thrown into a bag and shaken up into a cluster of noise. From trickling industrial effects and percussive glass bottles to layered vocal lines and muffled guitar riffs, this song hits like an ADHD brain with too many tabs open—which can either be overwhelming or intriguing depending on your mood.
Alien Ant Farm have made quite the return with mAntras, bringing back the poised sound that made them known, while tossing in some curveballs that would have any audience scratching their heads while jamming along. While the lyrics are straightforward, the use of layering, progressive instrumentals, and genre-bending take at least a good few listens to fully grasp.
Buy the album here:
https://alienantfarmstore.com/
8 / 10
COLLEEN KANOWSKY