Review: Story Of The Year’s ‘A.R.S.O.N’ Album – When The Horn Blows

Story Of The Year, a Missouri post-hardcore band, has reemerged with their seventh record, ‘A.R.S.O.N.’, showcasing a revitalized sound that harkens back to their early days in the post-hardcore scene. Known for their loud thrills, powerful choruses, and impactful statements, Story of the Year has made a name for themselves since their debut album ‘Page Avenue’ in 2003. Tracks like ‘Until the Day I Die’ and ‘Anthem of Our Dying Day’ quickly propelled the band to stardom, solidifying their presence in the live music circuit both locally and internationally.

Comprised of Dan Marsala on vocals, Ryan Phillips on guitar, Josh Wills on drums, and Adam Russell on bass, the band has evolved and grown tighter with each album release. From ‘Page Avenue’ to ‘Tear Me to Pieces’, Story of the Year has consistently honed their signature sound, incorporating elements of metal, post-punk, alternative, and everything in between. ‘A.R.S.O.N’ (All Rage Still Only Numb) is no exception, capturing a balance between melody and mayhem that pays homage to the band’s earlier works while pushing their sound forward.

Lead single ‘Gasoline (All Rage Still Only Numb)’ showcases the band’s newfound intensity, with Marsala’s vocals and Phillip’s guitar work creating a sense of empowerment amidst chaos. According to Russell, the band has found their version of heavy in the emotional weight and intensity of their music. Even in the band’s softer moments, there remains an underlying sense of danger and urgency that defines their sound.

Tracks like ‘Disconnected’ and ‘See Through’ explore themes of isolation and introspection, while ‘My Religion’ and ‘Better Than High’ offer moments of respite amidst the chaos. The album culminates in ‘I Don’t Wanna Feel Like This Anymore’, a fast-paced anthem that encapsulates the band’s evolution over the years. Despite their long tenure in the music industry, Story of the Year continues to push boundaries and reinvent themselves with each release.

‘A.R.S.O.N’ is not a mere nostalgia trip but a bold reimagining of the band’s signature sound. With twenty years under their belt, Story of the Year remains committed to their identity and refuses to rest on their laurels. Their upcoming performance at the Download Festival in the UK promises to be a celebration of their enduring legacy and unwavering dedication to their craft.

In conclusion, Story of the Year’s ‘A.R.S.O.N’ is a testament to their resilience and creativity, showcasing a band that continues to evolve and defy expectations. With this latest release, Story of the Year proves that they are a force to be reckoned with in the post-hardcore scene and beyond.