Music Review: HEALTH releases new album ‘CONFLICT DLC’ with strong reception

This year has been a rollercoaster of emotions for many, drowning in feelings of dread, overwhelm, and despair. If you’ve found yourself in this boat, then the latest album from the noise rock band HEALTH is a must-listen. Titled ‘CONFLICT DLC,’ this album is not just a standalone record but an expansion pack to their previous album ‘RAT WARS.’ As the band’s sixth release, ‘CONFLICT DLC’ takes things up a notch with its intensity and raw emotions.

The opening track, ‘Ordinary Loss,’ sets the tone for the entire album, delving into themes of grief and the inevitability of death. Lead vocalist Jake Duzsik’s poignant lyrics capture the despair and catharsis that permeate throughout the record. This album is not for the faint of heart; it’s a deep dive into the industrial metal realm that HEALTH has made their own since their return to the music scene a decade ago.

‘Burn the Candles’ plunges listeners into a dark, pulsating world of heavy beats and serrated guitars, creating an atmosphere that is both oppressive and exhilarating. The album as a whole navigates between melodic melancholia and sheer chaos, showcasing the band’s ability to balance intense emotions with powerful instrumentals. The production on ‘CONFLICT DLC,’ courtesy of Drew Fulk, elevates the album to new heights, creating a haunting and immersive sonic experience.

HEALTH’s evolution as a band is evident in ‘CONFLICT DLC,’ with each member bringing their A-game to the table. Drummer Ben Miller’s aggressive percussion work adds to the album’s overall intensity, while Duzsik and Famiglietti’s multi-instrumentalist approach creates a textured soundscape that is both raw and polished. The album’s bleak undertones are balanced with moments of reflection and hope, as seen in tracks like ‘Don’t Kill Yourself’ and ‘Wasted Years.’

Listening to ‘CONFLICT DLC’ is a visceral experience, with each song hitting hard and leaving a lasting impact. It’s an album that doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of life but embraces them head-on. In a world that often feels unstable and uncertain, HEALTH’s music serves as a reminder to cherish the moments of light in the darkness and to hold on to each other through the tough times. ‘CONFLICT DLC’ is a powerful examination of the human experience in 2025, a testament to resilience, solidarity, and the enduring power of music to connect us all.