Go Big Or Go Home!!

Royal Blood exploded on the scene in 2014 and brought with them a self titled debut album and unforgettable energetic shows. It’s been 2 years since the duo released their debut album and they did not disappoint!

With the groups newly released sophomore album How Did We Get So Dark?, Royal Blood managed to keep their trademark pumped up rock and roll sound and mix in simplistic pop/glam musical elements to elevate themselves and their audience into a sexy attitude driven party.

For a decent amount of artists throughout music history, the sophomore album either doesn’t live up to expectations or just carries on the same sound from the first record. Royal Blood managed to go beyond that and produce another solid set of songs that only adds to the monumental tone the band established on their previous album.

The album is a great mixture of pop hooks and glam sex appeal with the panache of punk rock. It’s evident throughout the whole record, but especially with songs like “She’s Creeping“, “Where Are You Now?“, and “I Only Lie When I Love You“. However, bassist/vocalist Mike Kerr and drummer Ben Thatcher know their roots and hold true to the heart of gut punching riffs that make great rock and roll. Songs such as “Lights Out“, “Sleep“, and the title track “How Did We Get So Dark?” showcase that the duo know how to write tenacious and catchy songs.

There’s one track that really sticks out from the rest though. In an album filled with so many new and strong soundscapes, “Hole In Your Heart” stands out from the pack with the inclusion of keyboards supplying both the main riff and blueprint of the song. Could this be the clue for fans both old and new as to what the next album will sound like?

All in all, Royal Blood brings a new and much needed vibrancy to rock and mainstream music. It’s a vast understatement to say that it’s refreshing. I cannot wait to see what this band pumps out next and most importantly what direction they will take for their next venture.