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Hi Sorry State readers! What’s up? I procrastinated this week which wasn’t smart, as Thursdays are already rather hectic for me. So I’m just gonna jump in.
I blindly purchased this Poison Ruin single last summer (side note: you get three songs) and it sold really fast. So I’m glad they did another run. It’s been a steady seller so grab one if you want one! Check out the new album while you’re at it. It’s sick. But let’s back up and chat about the 2022 release.
Poison Ruin has a really interesting sound. It’s kind of a blend of post punk, synth punk, and dungeon synth. The latter descriptor is a new one for me. The music is indeed swimming in darkness and gloom, but how deep they go in that pool varies, and that’s part of what makes the sound interesting. It’s also why the doom and gloom doesn’t define their sound.
In the title track (my favorite) they spend a little extra time creating a haunting intro and setting the tone. I think there’s even some thunder. I could do without such literal sound effects. But they make up for it with the rest of the song and it kicks ass. It’s not long before the drums kick in to speed up the tempo to lead into a welcomed explosion of gritty and urgent punk. I gotta say, the rhythm section goes hard.
Although the songs are atmospheric in a dark wave kind of way, they’re still melodic and hooky and exciting in a way that maintains cohesiveness with the overall vibe. There are several tempo changes per song, and typically a build up to an anthem style chorus. The big choruses are what I like most about the album.
With the mix of sounds and tempo changes, I actually felt a little anxious listening to the record for the first time. Like you don’t know what’s around the corner. Any of the tracks would be kinda perfect for a soundtrack to a suspenseful B movie. Like for a chase scene or something.
That all said, Poison Ruin has a unique sound that makes for some fresh punk. Give it a try. Thanks for reading!
-Angela