Comeback Kid brings their signature intensity with deep, hard-hitting tracks, but this record features both soaring highs and a few missteps that prevent it from reaching greatness. There are moments when the band truly shines, delivering hardcore anthems with the energy and aggression they’ve built their name on. Crunchy riffs, huge drum beats, thick bass lines, and crowd-pleasing sing-alongs all come together in some of the album's standout tracks. Songs like “No Easy Way Out” and “Dead on the Fence” capture the fast-paced, energetic hardcore that Comeback Kid is known for, pushing the limits of what a hardcore song can be with their explosive pace and anthemic intensity.

However, there are times when the energy falters. Tracks like “Everything Relates” and “True to Form” have their moments of excitement, but for the most part, they feel more generic, lacking the vitality that makes Comeback Kid stand out. The punk-like drum patterns and lackluster riffs come across as a bit uninspired, and without that signature bite, they fail to make a lasting impression. The urgency and fire that characterizes the band’s best work just aren’t present here, leaving these songs feeling somewhat flat compared to the rest of the album.

One of the most impressive aspects of this record is the rhythm section. The bass is a standout, delivering a thick, powerful sound that gives the album its hardcore edge. It’s present throughout the entire album, adding weight to the music and enhancing the overall heaviness. The drums also deserve special mention for their intricate fills and inventive patterns, keeping the band sounding fresh and tight even as the songs progress. The rhythmic backbone of this album is solid, helping to hold everything together even when some of the songs don’t quite hit the mark.

The vocals are another strong point. There’s a nice variation in delivery, and the fire that fans love is still very much alive. The main vocals maintain their intensity, while even the backing vocals add emotional depth and punch to the tracks. The energy in the vocal performance is palpable, and it’s clear that the band still has the fire they had when they first started.

Maintaining a band for so long, especially in a genre like hardcore, is no easy feat, and Comeback Kid proves that they still have plenty to offer despite a few missteps along the way. Sure, not every song hits the mark, but the band clearly has the passion and ability to deliver some truly great tracks. There are still moments where they capture the spirit of hardcore at its best, and it’s clear that Comeback Kid has more than enough fuel left in the tank to keep pushing forward. While this album may have its low points, it still holds plenty of standout moments and showcases a band that remains hungry and capable of putting out some serious bangers.