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Website [Release date 26.01.24]
The Survival Code are an independent London based rock duo with a passion for RIFFS, SOARING MELODIES, BANGIN’ DRUMS and some of the most energetic live shows you’ll ever see. Best known for their song “So Serious” from their 2019 release “Crosses To Carry, Coffins To Fill” which has nearly 1.5 million streams on Spotify, they’re following that up with 12 singles in 12 months in 2023. Their 11th single from the release “Waiting In The Wings” available everywhere.
The latest offering “Whispers of Woes” is an album that’s filled with emotive and contemporary tracks that explore what it’s like to be human and navigate the challenges and opportunities of the music industry in the digital age.
Recorded and produced with Matt Hyde (Gallows, Ash, Slipknot) in the band’s studio/rehearsal room, ‘Whispers of Woe’ is a sonic document that attests to not just the strength, resilience and growth that artists and bands need in today’s music business, but also innovation and adaptability in what are extremely challenging times for musicians.
As a band the Survival Code has witnessed common music industry murkiness, from underhand band management tactics resulting in money being stolen from the group, to a former touring member concealing significant drug issues, and more. However, the band has celebrated significant wins; notably previous EP, ‘Crosses To Carry, Coffins To Fill’, has amassed over 3 million streams with the single ‘So Serious’ alone generating 1.6 million streams and counting.
‘Whispers of Woes’ heightens previous releases by the Survival Code, London UK alt rock band, with singer/songwriter Gary McGuinness delivering his best songs yet through rich song writing that’s enhanced with effective production values. Grit, guts, fizz and fuzz are complemented with hooks and melody in abundance, whilst the lyrics pull no punches in their stories, or rather whispers, of anguish. The songs on this new album will resonate with many creative artists who choose (or rather it chooses them) to navigate the complex landscape of the modern entertainment industry.
When first listening, I immediately can see the influence of Biffy Clyro and Foo Fighters. Two bands that I have much musical respect for.
Track listing and track review -
1: “The Heart Will Bleed” the first track on the album. Will be one I can see myself belting out on a regular basis. Lyrically just phenomenal.
2: “Never Knew You Existed” jeez Louise the guitar on this track is insane! This track feels heavier musically. This track really stood out for me in showcasing this bands musical and vocal talent.
3: “For Right, or Wrong, for Better, or Worse”
A song about trying to navigate your way through the world? It being crazy and not feeling like you have all the answers but moving on and pushing on?
Lyrical genius!
4: “We Are Just Fooling Ourselves”
I can imagine Belting this one out at a live show, jumping up and down. Fabulous!
5: “Sum of all Our Parts” this is my favourite track. Just so powerful lyrically and musically.
6: “Built to Break”
this track brought gritty guitar riffs and a gritty sound vocally.
7: “Haunted by Myself” another stand out track for me. We have all at times had internal battles. This track showcases that struggle perfectly.
8: “Choreography and Chaos” this track really showcases this bands vocal range and ability.
9: “Can’t Be Explained” this track felt quite grungy. Loved it. I could actually really hear the drumming talents on this one. This track was slower paced than others but still packs the same punch and carries the same impact as the previous tracks.
10: “Digging Your Own Grave” although emotive, this track had a bouncy energy to it.
11: “Waiting in the Wings” this packed a punch with heavy riffs throughout. My favourite track musically on this album. Fantastic guitar solo on this one.
12: “Random Faces” what a way to end an album.
Fist in the air energy with this one. Definitely a sing it out loud track.
Listening to this album on the whole I have to say I cried.
Having gone through a really rough patch in my life the lyrics really hit home. It uncovered so many emotions which is what I think the band wanted to convey with this album. I think so many people will resonate lyrically with this album one way or another. The talent shown vocally and musically is on another level.
Well done is all I can say. Fantastic album! One I will definitely be playing on a regular basis. ****1/2
Review by Lucy Dennis
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
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In 2023 he signed a recording deal with Sony in Canada and released a new single on 15 September.
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