The Hunna – “Cover You”

The Hunna want to become the biggest band in the world. On the evidence of their new single “Cover You,” there are hooks big and bold, and they champion well versed lyrics. So why can’t they propel and be on hallowed stages with the likes of Foo Fighters and Green Day? They may have to tweak and work tirelessly, but there is promise here. “Cover You” expands on their loud, brooding sound, and resonates profoundly. It is a revelation, a spark of quality. 

Black Orchid Empire – “Winter Keeps Us Warm” 

Emotionally connecting and cathartic, “Winter Keeps Us Warm” by the heavy rock band Black Orchard Empire, is an earworm with substance. It begins softly generating a great vocal range from frontman Paul Visser, and those highly evocative lyrics complement the song well. Words are key here as the song describes a man falling into the arms of a savior. Although he’s frozen in her arms, he seems ready to live another day. As the songs lifts, the chorus holds no barriers. It’s one of the most adept songs in the band’s armory—one of the saddest too. 

The Bottom Line – “Happy”

This track by The Bottom Line is far from being flamboyant. It may be called “Happy,” but it’s a brooding, insightful deep dive into negative thoughts on the world. Musically, the pop-punk signature sound is present. Those riffs are reminiscent of bands like Blink 182 and Neck Deep. It isn’t ground-breaking, but there are points to like. Lyrically, we’re pointed to the abyss, and it’s all drawn from a dark place. 

A Day To Remember – “Mindreader” 

A Day To Remember are classed as pioneers of the scene. A band that have had their day in the beaming spotlight. Nowadays their style has been heavily altered with pop dramatics at the forefront. Mindreader doesn’t dazzle as a single and doesn’t offer nothing new. This pop infused direction doesn’t fit completely—it seems odd and rushed. Yes, bands must evolve, but when they overly produce their music, it seems like a waste and a shame. 

Stand Atlantic – “Wavelength”

Brightly lit and wisdom fuelled, Stand Atlantic’s new track is a pop punk dream. With intriguing lyrics to ponder over and riffs aplenty, the song hits the right notes. It may sound commercial and polished, but there’s meaning under all the sharpness. This meaning comes from blunt lyrical play. The band can write intelligent strands, which is a rarity in the pop punk scene. On “Wavelength” the band expose their vulnerable side and play for the people. Through time, stages in colossal venues will exhibit the band at full pace. 

Reviews by Mark McConneville