The latest addition to Set It Off's musical repertoire (and their Fearless Records debut), Midnight, is a far cry from their humble beginnings as an angsty local Florida scene band.
They are solidifying their reputation as a contagiously rhythmic pop act while nurturing their bold rock roots at the heart of their music.
Set It Off's previous album Upside Down was a culture shock for long-time fans because it was very poppy and upbeat. Duality was darker and edgier by comparison. Both of these albums marked a turning point for the band after the era of Cinematics, which showcased their theatrical pop punk side. Finally we reach the latest release, Midnight, which is a culmination of every layer of Set It Off's sound. It feels like they finally found their groove after a long period of experimentation.
They dappled in influences from pop, rock, and even latin fare ( *cough cough* Lonely Dance *cough cough*). Their usage of clarinets, horns, strings, and gospel choirs gave them a complex, multifaceted energy that displays their fearlessness (pun intended) to go beyond the confines of the four piece group. After many trials and tribulations, Set It Off is finding a unique place within the music world that challenges the boundaries of genres.
It is an invigorating change of pace to find pop music that is real. I usually dive into the deep end and find solace in darker music that relates to the hardships of life. While there is nothing wrong with that, they express anger, depression, isolation, and vulnerability in a way that shows us light at the end of the tunnel too. There is no shortage of catchy choruses on this album and they know how to use the contrast of cheerful melodies and dark lyrics to their advantage.
Stand out tracks:
- Hourglass - This is one of the song that reminisces on the dark, theatrical aspects of Set It Off's past and then swiftly transitions to a poppy chorus. Old fans of the band will latch on to this one.
- Midnight Thoughts - This one will captivate you from the moment the first bass line kicks in. It feels raunchy, sexy, and dark. The chorus gives me serious Maroon 5 vibes, which I adore. The slow build up of the song creates a stunning energy from start to finish.
- No Disrespect - This is once of the grooviest songs on the album. The melodies make me feel a tinge of nostalgia and they are balanced out with their signature salty breakup lyrics.
- Happy All The Time - The horns and harmonies mark an epic ending for Midnight that will make you go back for another listen. This song is like the soundtrack that plays at the end of a movie when the final wide shot goes dark and the credits roll; it encompasses the overall theme and closes the album on a high note. You will be clapping and chanting along with the choir before you know it. Shoutout to Skylar Accord to his spectacular guest appearance as well!
Duds:
- Stitch Me Up - The cliche metaphor of a broken person being stitched up in a new relationship is a cute and clever idea but not endearing enough for me. I couldn't get past the cliche lyrics in order to enjoy the song. This is one that their younger demographic might enjoy more than me.
- Unopened Windows - I have yet to find a ballad of theirs that I fall head over heels for. Upbeat dance tunes are their strong suit so I don't gravitate towards Set It Off when I'm in the mood for a slow song. It is an emotional track with a slow build up to a grand finale but it took too long to get there.
Old school Set It Off fans that are still searching for the next My Chemical Romance, turn away now. On the other hand, if you love their new poppy direction, step right up to relish in the infectious melodies of Midnight. The album comes out February 1st via Fearless Records!
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