Album review: THE RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS – X’s For Eyes

rja

Better Noise Music  [Release date 03.10.25]

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, since their formation in the early 2000s, has carved a unique space in the alternative rock scene. With the release of their new album it’s clear the band has continued to evolve, building on the foundations laid by their earlier work.

Their journey from the raw energy of “Don’t You Fake It” to their current sound showcases a willingness to explore new territories, while still retaining elements that resonate with longtime fans.

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus I have to say, has been one of the solid bands of my teens. Even to this day “Face Down” is an anthem that is a staple in most emo playlists and undeniably holds a special place.

Released during a time when discussions around domestic violence were not as prevalent, the song’s powerful message connected with a wide audience. Its impact can be seen in the numerous stories shared by listeners who found solace and strength in its lyrics, solidifying its place as a pivotal song in the band’s career to this day. I’m hoping that this album has the same impact.

Let’s dive in!

I was immediately taken on a nostalgia trip and it felt like I was 17 again! The tone and vocals have not changed one bit. Still filled with explosively emotive lyrics that are quintessential and the pop punk/emo vibe with the tracks tempo.

Straight off the bat with the first track “Always the King” there is a metal edge and it’s really gritty. The lyrics are catchy and powerful. A really strong start. The added addition of “Kellin Quinn” on the vocals makes this one hell of an album opener.

The pace ups with a true pop punk accompaniment for “Purple Halo” anyone who was a teen in the early 2000s will be familiar with this type of sound.

Dropping the pace down a notch with “Perfection” which is a good move as the lyrics stand alone to be the showstopper the band backing up the lyrics beautifully.

Pace amped back up for the truly anthemic “X’s for Eyes” It has everything I could want! Fast pace, emotive lyrics, raw energy, catchy chorus.

“Bad Beat” more like bad ass beat! What a ballad! Oh my lord! The licks from the guitar are infectious. The lyrics tearing my heart strings out of my chest.  I got goosebumps from the vocals. The range is truly incredible. It had me close to tears it was stunning from start to finish. It has moments that truly haunted. The backing vocals creating these elements of harmony that took this song from 100 to 1000!

“Slipping Through” another gut puncher. This section of the album just has be in floods of tears, this album is just healing my inner teen.

“Home Improvement” another chorus belting anthem. The pace is upped and it’s a true lighters in the air moment. “Twenty Hour Drive” another pop punk punch.

“Kins and Carrol” a true heartbreak anthem.

“Getting By” the ending crescendo of this track had me in floods of tears. The build up on this was truly beautiful.

“Worth It” holy moly! This was grit. Straight off the bat there is metal vocal accompaniment from guest vocalist “Craig Mabbitt”. The vocals “you don’t have to try so hard to be prefect, you have my love, know that you’re worth it” this hit so so hard.

Being a trauma survivor and long time mental health sufferer. I truly don’t feel worth it some days. Songs like these not only help me. But I’m sure they help many others too. What an ending. Oh my god!

The musicality has been stellar since the bands debut, and these guys being seasoned musicians truly shows. The synergy is impeccable. Almost 20 years this band had their first album debut and it doesn’t sound like they have aged one bit.

I can’t pick a favourite track! I honestly can’t! I have been wanting to take some time where I can really immerse myself into this album and give it the true time it deserves.

The lyrics are some of the most emotive I’ve ever listened to. Songs of anguish, hurt, heartbreak and rising through the falls. I have been through the wringer in my life, and come out fighting just like this album expresses. So I find a true comfort when I am presented with something that just clicks.

Honestly, when I listen to music that connects, it’s like being wrapped in an emotional support blanket. I’m encompassed into this transcendent feeling of peace. That’s how music makes me feel. That’s what makes me passionate, that’s what gives me the drive to write. This album has truly awakened something in me. It’s made me laugh, it’s made me absolutely sob, and it’s made me reminisce and remind myself of how far I’ve come and what I’ve overcome to get here.

I’ve said this before about albums but this is a truly phenomenal album. For the lovers of the early pop punk/emo sound. This is for you!

The big question for this is, with the likes of My Chemical Romance touring and now the Red Jumpsuit Apparatus releasing an absolutely killer album… is emo back? Is the sound of the early 2000s making a comeback? I say yes!

It was never a phase!!  All the underdogs unite! I am so happy that the music that shaped my teens is so prevalent in 2025. This album in my eyes will stand up against the other greats in the genre at the moment.

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus - THANK YOU! You have made this woman who never felt like she belonged in her teens and early 20s, truly be seen.

The band are currently touring the US but I seriously cannot wait for them to get back on UK soil. *****

Review by Lucy Parr


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