02/07/2014

The Maine - Kennedy Curse | Single Review




"This is human. This is imperfect. This is sincere. This is Forever Halloween." John'O Callaghan's brilliant summation of The Maine's fourth studio album was a bold statement to say the least. Thankfully his sentiment still rings true one year later. Forever Halloween has been a seminal force in the shaping of The Maine's future. And what better way to celebrate its resounding success then with a deluxe release packed with brand new songs. One of which, a unique track entitled "Kennedy Curse", was a personal ode to their fans.

From an artistic standpoint it's a very bold move from the band.  After a brief flirtation with much heavier tones and influences in the melancholic "Misery" it's rare for The Maine to venture into darker territory. Yet "Kennedy Curse" marries the raw emotion with a simplistic stripped back approach that truly delivers. The focus on the gritty lyrics creates such a prominence and weight that it strikes hard at the listener. In particular the line "Will someone just come and take my heart? Set it down in front of moving cars. I feel nothing at all" was one such lyric. It made me literally hit the pause button and sit back for a moment.  

The deep seated significance and unabashed darkness in Callaghan's words was a refreshing  moment for me. That was the moment where I realised they had shed all preconceptions as just another Warped tour boy band destined to be forgotten. They have matured into a group that strive to go against their origins and to be heard by more than just their female teen demographic. This band is destined for grander heights and with hidden gems such as this track they are well on their way with their newest material.

4/5

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