Play Dead Review

Play Dead Review

Abigale Smith, A&E Writer

Play Dead- Mutemath
Released: September 8, 2017

Hit Parade
Pixie Oaks
Stroll On
Break The Fever
Nuisance
Placed On Hold
Everything’s New
War
Achilles Heel
Marching To The End

Play Dead is the most recent release by American alternative band, Mutemath. The album was revealed earlier this year on Sept. 8. This is the band’s most recent release since their album, Vitals, in 2015.

This album, however, has been one of the band’s most successful to date. This success can be attributed to a number of different factors.

One example is the distinct vocals that could only belong to the band’s very own, Paul Meany. The lead vocalist is featured in multiple songs on the album such as Everything’s New and Break the Fever. The songs offer such a wide range of notes, it is nearly impossible to ignore.

While vocals have their own way of drawing attention, another factor could be the music video made for the song War; because everything is more interesting with video context to go with it.

The ‘comeback’ of drummer, Darren King, was audible multiple times throughout the release in songs such as Achilles Heel. His bold, groovy style of drumming adds a major energy boost to the album. Many fans of Mutemath commented on the prominent drumming in this album compared to the last.

Coming right after the upbeat rhythm of Achilles Heel is the last song of the album, Marching to the End. There is a massive change in tone as all of the previous energy and excitement is turned into a much calmer, more mellow sound to end the release.