The Young Hearts release new album - review
UK punk rock band, The Young Hearts, released their new album The Modern State today and having previously released teaser singles like “London” and “Old Familiar” – it was obvious that a strong album was on the horizon. Safe to say that there was a lot more where those singles came from and The Modern State did not disappoint. In an interview with The Young Hearts last summer, we asked them to describe themselves for the newcomers and they came back with, “honest and heartfelt anthems” and this couldn’t be more apt.
An element of melancholy runs through the album, but it doesn’t make you feel sad, it makes you feel reflective, nostalgic and uplifted. It’s balanced out by how up-tempo the tracks are – you can imagine hearing the album live, reflecting on life but also jumping in unison with a crowd (the dream).
The Modern State tells a story, and The Young Hearts execute it so well – it feels very reminiscent of Deaf Havana’s Fools and Worthless Liars era and The Menzingers. The storytelling element brings such a depth to the tracks, it creates texture, and it holds your attention.
There’s a running theme of getting older and not knowing what the future may hold. Their lyrics are relatable and will no doubt strike a chord with any listener. There’s very much a one size fits all formula with the songs relating to any situation. The opening lyrics in “Swim”, ‘I’ve been sinking every night this week, I’m sure you know how it feels, it’s impossible to sleep’ – feels as though it could be about the current state of the world and it's definitely how life in lockdown can get you.
Speaking about the album Craig Lawrence says – “The Modern State is a collection of songs almost five years in the making. After two EPs and a number of setbacks, personally and professionally, we were at a point where the desire to carry on as a band was starting to come into question. Adulthood had crept up on us and it was becoming more and more difficult to fully commit. We had a handful of songs written, and our initial intention was to record another EP, but after realising it could be the final release for The Young Hearts, we decided that an album would be the most productive way for us to say everything we wanted to.
We spent a long time perfecting the songs in the studio with the help of our good friend Ian Sadler. If this was to be our final release, we were going to do everything we could to make sure it was the best it possibly could be.
We are so incredibly proud of these eleven songs, and it’s been tough waiting so long to put them out, but with the release just round the corner, we could not be more excited for them to be heard. It's a huge achievement for this band to reach this point.”
Looking for some fresh music for your favourite playlist? Look no further.
Listen to The Modern State here.