Review: The Pale White releases ‘The Big Sad’ album

The Pale White is back with a vibrant new album featuring a mix of hard-hitting rock tracks and heartfelt ballads. Dropping on 18th April, ‘The Big Sad’ showcases the band’s musical evolution and mature sound, kicking off with the punchy single ‘Lost In The Moment’ which sets the tone for what’s to come. Their follow-up single, ‘The Final Exit’, is a powerful anthem with soaring strings that add a majestic touch to the track.

Frontman Adam Hope delves into the emotional depth of the album, reflecting on the journey of love and loss with ‘The Final Exit’. He shares, “From lovers to strangers, Final Exit is the last goodbye to someone you’ve shared a huge portion of your life with. You both don’t quite know how you got here, but you’re both here nevertheless.” The raw, heartfelt emotion in this track highlights the band’s newfound confidence, as they ventured into self-production to create music that is authentic and self-assured.

Embracing their roots in the North East music scene, The Pale White has earned accolades for being one of the region’s hottest acts, receiving praise from publications like NME. Their recent UK tour showcased their raw, powerful sound, treating audiences to a taste of the new album. Tracks like ‘Preparing For The Big Sad’ and ‘I’m Sorry’ veer into more melancholic territory, showcasing a softer, more introspective side of the band’s artistry.

Adam mentions, “We are, by nature, a rock band,” as he reflects on the band’s influences from iconic rock acts like R.E.M. and Queens of the Stone Age. While the album features plenty of rock moments, The Pale White also explores new sounds and textures, adding a fresh dimension to their music. Tracks like ‘January, Please’ reveal a vulnerable, tender side to the band, delving into themes of loneliness and self-discovery with poignant lyrics and evocative musical arrangements.

One of the standout elements of ‘The Big Sad’ is the band’s attention to detail, from the songwriting to the album’s cover art. The cover features a hand-painted model by the band members’ father, inspired by a historic photograph of a ship launching from a shipyard in Wallsend. This personal touch adds a layer of intimacy to the album, reflecting The Pale White’s commitment to emotional storytelling and artistic expression.

With ‘The Big Sad’, The Pale White have crafted an album that blends raw energy with introspection, showcasing their growth as musicians and storytellers. From heartfelt ballads to hard-hitting rock anthems, the album offers a dynamic listening experience that captivates audiences and sets the stage for the band’s future endeavors. As they continue to make their mark on the music scene, The Pale White’s artistry shines through on ‘The Big Sad’, leaving a lasting impression on fans and newcomers alike.