Better Lovers
Highly Irresponsible
Sharptone Records
To say this record is highly anticipated is an understatement; since this amalgamation of Dillinger Escape Plan, Everytime I Die, and Fit For An Autopsy emerged in 2023, the resulting shockwaves have been seismic, cemented by the kind of blistering live performances you’d expect. So what of this album? First off, it comes in HOT! One thing immediately striking is Will Putney’s stamp on it. There are big metal riffs here, which I’m guessing is him, especially in the Lies Between The Lines opener. It’s a starting jolt straight from the off. Your Misplaced Self is in familiar territory if you’re acquainted with the players involved. A White Horse Covered In Blood is glorious and full of sass and punky swagger. At All Times is a beautiful dysfunctional love song that has a permanent place in my heart and is the album’s biggest surprise. As expected, Greg Puciato is on top form; the man is a treasure. The riffing from Jordan Buckley and Will Putney is impeccable. This album is for people who are already fans of the musicians involved sometimes; for casual listeners, this is a gnarly, physical, twisty record; you do have to work with it a bit. When the chorus from Deliver Us From Life kicks in, you will be delivered, indeed! There’s more going on than lip service to fans, though this is a profoundly complex album that takes a few listens to unlock its treasures, like all the best ones I find.
Reviewed By George Miller