DZ Deathrays - Positive Rising: Part 1

New sounds, new ideas, and a whole lot of classic DZ bangers

With a third member added to the band, DZ Deathrays are here to impress us with new sounds, new ideas, and a whole lot of classic DZ bangers. There’s quite a hype in every song, and the energy is always at a high. Welcoming Positive Rising: Part 1 is “Hi Everyone”. It’s a gradual build-up to the full potential of this album. The first hint of electric guitar warms your insides and as the song assembles your excitement levels are elevated. “Still No Change” just gets straight into it. No build up or suspense, it's pure DZ Deathrays with a rawer than usual voice and a constant fast pace, we are warmed and ready to go for the third song “IN-TO-IT”. And here is the point where you can picture the mosh thrashing their heads around. The bass drum grabs the attention of your heart beat and sends you racing throughout the song.

“A Lot To Lose” has an explosive beginning and a strange ending. The song explores a fuller sound, which makes sense having added third member Lachlan Ewbank to the show. The chorus is bordering on punk-pop which doesn’t necessarily tickle my fancy.

“Snakes” is a definite stand out of the album. It has a merciful intro that turns into a real heavy song. It’s high-volume and high-paced which attracts your attention and keeps a strong vibe. Make sure you listen to “Nightmare Wrecker” for the epic guitar riffs! I enjoyed this song because it shows a slight change to their usual sound but is still such a punchy song... just wait until 2 minutes in! Absolutely delicious guitar work.

“Year Of The Dog” features The Bronx frontman Matt Caughthran and it certainly does not disappoint. Beginning with a rumble of the drums we see the grungiest side of DZ Deathrays. A croaky yelling voice adds a harsh element to the song and hooks you in with the bridge. The album ends with “Silver Living”, a calmer, pop sounding tune. It focuses more on the lyrics rather than the thrashing of instruments.

DZ Deathrays really pack a punch. They are a frenzied and restless band and it’s great to see that they are keen to expand and improve without losing their integrity. The boys are here to entertain their listeners, and it’s quite evident they base a lot of their music on the live experience it will bring. Positive Rising: Part 1 is something to be very proud of. Now the question is... what will Part 2 bring us?

(Alcopop! Records)