Set It Off released their self-titled album on November 7 and it is an absolute riot!
Opening with Pathological, I’m immediately given Hypnotized vibes but dialled up to 11 as the rap moments are much faster, and the chorus is an absolute pop anthem.
I also love how angsty it is in its lyrical content, which is a theme throughout the album – of airing grievances.
Punching Bag is more akin to some of the older Set It Off singles which is not bad, but it’s nice to have that nod to the Uncontainable era, just with a darker tone. I love the line “people pleasing isn’t good for your health so go fuck yourself.” It’s something a lot of people will be able to relate to.
The same with What’s in it for Me?, the lyrics “you take it all, leave nothing on the bone, can’t make it on your own” are ones that really cut deep.
Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing was one of my favourite Set It Off songs from the time I first found them in 2014, and the REBORN version elevates it to a god-like level. I absolutely adore the fact that you can even hear the more nuanced differences (and not just the slight change in Cody’s voice from a decade of performing). But the instrumentation throughout is darker with more of a fill from the drums, and the screams on ‘burn in hell’.
Vicious Cycle has a bit of a Swan Song and I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead vibe and I love that.
The band being independent is probably the best thing they’ve done as the album shows that they have the freedom to go hard both lyrically and sonically.
Lyrical themes relate to life and people, usually how they fuck you over. As is the case in Rotten, which Cody said: “It’s about people manipulating others just because they want something from them.” It’s an album that no matter who you are, you will have experienced multiple topics from throughout.
Each track is also insanely catchy, something that I’ve loved the band for for years and it’s good to see that even going heavier, they’ve not sacrificed the catchy pop hooks. Case in point, the second time I came onto the Creating Monsters chorus, I was already singing along. And the Parasite chorus had the same vibe too! Parasite also had some cool rap sections.
The album is definitely the best of Set It Off (so far). You have been able to see the transition throughout the last couple of releases, but hearing the album in full it truly comes together as a complete package.
Cody’s lyrical delivery cuts like a knife through butter, with the lyrics being as angsty as you can think of.
The guitars are heavier, the drums are more prominent and the darker synths tie it together perfectly.
If you liked any of Set It Off’s previous releases, you will still love this. And if you’ve not listened, then you really should as I guarantee you’ll fall in love.
