Disclaimer: Fentanyl is bad for you. Don’t do drugs. However, the band Fentanyl—on the other hand—is something to get behind. This is an addictive band in the best way, offering an eclectic mix of punk that’s both raw and upbeat in the most refreshing way possible. With their wonky guitars, groovy bass lines, and tight drum beats, Fentanyl has crafted a sound that’s both chaotic and controlled, embodying the spirit of punk while pushing the genre forward. Their approach to punk is uniquely fresh, with a balance of energy, melody, and creativity that’ll make you crave more.
The standout feature of this album is the interplay between the bass and drums, which together form the backbone of each track. On songs like “Blind”, “Ever Ending”, and “Further”, the drum and bass work is especially noteworthy. Whether it’s a groovy, foot-tapping bassline leading the charge or tight, almost hyperactive drumming propelling the song forward, the rhythm section is always on point. The bass is thick and subtle at times, but on tracks like “Spiral”, it can also feel menacing, adding a layer of depth and intrigue that keeps things exciting. The drums, on the other hand, move from fast, sharp punk rhythms to more playful, almost whimsical beats, giving the album a fun, light-hearted edge. Take “Real Me” and “Detached”, for example, where the drumming is fast, furious, and playful all at once.
The production of the drums and bass is crisp and well-mixed, giving each element space to breathe. Every snare hit feels sharp, and every bass throb lands with precision. There's a satisfying clarity to it all, as if you can hear every little nuance that makes these songs stand out. The band knows how to blend these elements without it feeling cluttered—something that can often be a challenge in punk music, where energy and noise can sometimes drown out the finer details.
The guitar work is equally impressive. It’s stringy, slightly off-kilter, and often sounds like it’s teetering on the edge of chaos, yet somehow it all pulls together. The guitars on tracks like “Or So I Thought”, “Ever Ending”, and “Stress Starve” have a quirky, almost whimsical tone that, paradoxically, fits perfectly within the world of punk rock. They manage to sound both out-of-tune and harmonious at the same time, giving the album a raw, edgy feel. “Blind” is a perfect example of this, where the guitars jangle and wobble, but rather than sounding sloppy, they serve to create an energy that's uniquely their own. The guitars are weird, but they’re weird in a way that feels intentional, and they contribute to the album's overall sense of playful chaos.
The vocals in Fentanyl's music are another highlight. The singer’s delivery is raw, emotional, and full of attitude, but it never reaches the point of being totally unhinged. It’s controlled chaos, where the vocals match the energy of the music without overwhelming it. On tracks like “Avoidant” and “Brackish Water”, the vocals are angry and defiant, but there’s also a sense of vulnerability woven in. They balance the harder, more explosive moments with a sense of human grit that makes them feel relatable. The lyrics themselves capture that restless punk spirit, dealing with themes of frustration, self-doubt, and rebellion, but with a unique twist that makes each song feel fresh. “Brackish Water”, in particular, showcases the raw power in the vocals, where the singer’s delivery drives home the emotional intensity of the track.
Even more surprising is how every song on this album feels distinct. There’s little to no sense of repetition here, which is often a pitfall for bands in the punk genre. Take “Gazes Back”, for instance. The song has a great ebb and flow, starting off fast and furious with pissed-off punk energy before transitioning into a slower, groovier section that feels almost introspective. This dynamic shift not only keeps the song feeling fresh but also showcases the band's ability to create variety within the confines of punk. And this shift in pace happens throughout the album—tracks ebb and flow, changing tempos and energy levels without ever feeling like they’re meandering or losing focus.
With the combination of punchy, high-energy tracks, moments of groovy experimentation, and an overall sense of musical freedom, Fentanyl’s album is a breath of fresh air in the punk scene. The production is tight, the songs are well-paced, and there's an undeniable sense of fun that permeates the entire record. This is a band that knows how to create short, impactful songs that leave you wanting more—whether you’re in the mood for a burst of fast-paced punk fury or a laid-back, beach-punk vibe. No matter what, Fentanyl keeps things exciting from start to finish, offering an experience that’s addictive in the best possible way. You'll find yourself coming back to this album time and time again, craving that raw, upbeat energy they bring to the table.
RATING:9/10
NOTABLE TRACKS:
Blind
Ever Ending
Further
Stress Starve
Detached