Continuing to be a prominent figure for the past decade in British hard rock, Frank Carter has remained one heck of a frontman throughout different projects. Since 2015, he’s put his efforts tantalizing the scene with the Rattlesnakes. Alongside slaying guitarist, Dean Richardson continues to succeed finding their softer side with End of Suffering (International Death Cult).
More melodic than what we are used with these guys, but more refined than most release this year so far, this third offering is supreme quality rock and roll. Carter himself has grown on this record and letting his empowered lyricism be the emphasis on most of the album but most remarkably in ‘Why a Butterfly Can’t Love a Spider.’ With vigorous rhythm changes and memorable lyrics: ‘When I’m high I’m in heaven/When I’m low I’m in hell’ you’ll be sure to singing along. Of course, you can’t write a political song without featuring the opinionated, Tom Morello. ‘Tyrant Lizard King’ serves as this bluesy, groovy tune because of the immense talent of Morello. It’s the right song for the perfect feature. The classic feels on ‘Heartbreaker’ is as catchy as expected but not as crude as in-your-face attitude we are used to with this act. Still, it strikes with candor.
In ‘Crowbar’ you are found with an edgier tune that is reminiscent of the bands past. The lyrics are catchy and guitar undertones with the industrial effect work well. Transitioning into ‘Love Games’ where Carter is found lyrically jaded accompanied with experimental synth vibes, the song is backed by simple piano chords are the so effective raw emotions of Carter.
This is an honest record and that honesty continues to thrive in the addictive and wholesome ‘Anxiety’ where Carter just wants to be happy. The imagery in ‘Angel Wings’ is so poignant with atmospheric vibes that coexist well with the pain felt in the vocals.
The distant keys in ‘Supervillain’ are haunting at first but the song kicks in a minute later to serve as a powerful anthem. The dark ‘Latex Dreams’ is a reference to Carter’s failed marriage and he uses that pain to its advantage, as this track will haunt you with its melody and the groovy guitar that weaves throughout keenly.
The same melodic finds its way on the entire album but it’s never tiresome. The witty chorus in ‘Kitty Sucker’ will have you intrigued with its punky, nifty riffs. Wrapping things up with the title track, this acoustic ballad with pleasing strums and melancholic piano keys is a lovely yet complicated final note.
What the End Of Suffering has done here is it has taken raw emotion into a beautiful hardcore slow dance. It might not be for everyone but its unfiltered execution is what makes it punk rock. Frank Carter has presented another side of him, vulnerable yet striking.
9 / 10
CYNTHIA JO