Review: AFI’s Album “Silver Bleeds The Black Sun” Embraces Darkness
Enveloped within the embrace of the descending leaves and autumnal breezes, the California kings of creepy cool, AFI, are back with their latest masterpiece. For decades, A Fire Inside has mastered the art of reinventing their sound with each new album, keeping fans on their toes. After the release of the experimental “Bodies” in 2021, no one could predict the direction the band would take next. However, in August of this year, a glimpse into their next phase was revealed, shattering all expectations.
The unveiling of “Behind The Clock” offered a tantalizing peek into the upcoming album’s dark world. The eerie lyrics, paired with a dynamic, maniacal baritone, set against a pulsing rhythm and grinding bass line, created an atmosphere of reverb and distortion that pushed boundaries in the band’s discography.
“Silver Bleeds The Black Sun…,” AFI’s twelfth album, is a passionate tribute to the dark post-punk influences that have guided the band for years. Songs like “Bird of Prey” and “Blasphemy & Excess” evoke the sounds of Echo and The Bunnymen and dark Cure eras, while tracks like “Holy Visions” and “Ash Speck In A Green Eye” introduce groove-oriented elements. Through sparse yet purposeful instrumentation, each song on the album breathes and flows with dynamic tension and cohesive spirit, showcasing a well-thought-out and expertly executed collection.
The journey through the album surprises and captivates with tracks like “Spear of Truth,” infusing Morricone-inspired dark western vibes into the band’s repertoire. The haunting melodies, atmospheric whistling, and thumping drumbeats create a mellow eeriness that complements frontman Davey Havok’s poignant lyrics about a brutal and hedonistic world. Guitarist Jade Puget’s meticulous approach is evident in every note, accompanied by the powerful rhythm sections of bassist Hunter Burgan and drummer Adam Carson.
As the album nears its end, the intensity crescendos with “Nooneunderground,” an explosion of death rock perfection that echoes the band’s revolutionary history. Abandoning traditional melodies for raw aggression, the track closes the record with an earth-shattering conclusion, leaving a lasting impact.
In summary, “Silver Bleeds The Black Sun…” stands as one of the most complete and well-crafted records of the year, showcasing AFI’s evolution and influence in the post-punk genre. As each track seamlessly blends into the next, the album solidifies its place among classics like “Pornography” and “Violator.” Embrace this wave of post-punk perfection, dim the lights, and let the music wash over you like a cool autumn rain.