OF MICE & MEN, following up on their 2021 release “Echo,” have returned with a resounding impact. Often, when a band reaches their eighth album, there’s a risk of them becoming stagnant, overstaying their welcome, and losing their original essence. “Tether,” however, tells a different story. The band is as ferocious as ever, delivering a sonic assault on the senses. From their involvement in mixing and producing the record to crafting the album cover, every band member has invested their blood, sweat, and tears into this project, resulting in outstanding outcomes.
The lead singles “Warpaint,” “Castaway,” and “Indigo” have already earned their place as instant classics in the OF MICE & MEN catalog. They served as tantalizing appetizers for fans in the lead-up to the album’s release, with “Warpaint” in particular igniting a fiery spirit that makes you feel ready to tackle life head-on. However, once you dive into the full album, you’re treated to a treasure trove of metalcore seamlessly interwoven with atmospheric synths that never feel out of place throughout the entire record.
The album kicks off in a slow and brooding fashion, welcoming listeners with the atmospheric opening track “Integration.” It sets the stage with its slow, brooding tone, serving as a prologue for the 38 minutes that follow. This track doesn’t hold back, featuring massive pulsating drums and an anthemic chorus, establishing the standard for what lies ahead. As you delve deeper into the album, you’ll discover that it’s not just the lead singles that pack a punch.
One standout track is “Eternal Pessimist,” a relentless assault on the senses that shows no mercy. It might be the most intense and heaviest song on the record, blending harsh vocals with a clean and anthemic chorus. Each time the song threatens to slow down, it pulls you back in with unforgiving breakdowns and a swirling guitar riff that hits the mark every time. “Enraptured” is another highlight, ramping up the intensity with an eerie atmosphere that’s reminiscent of TOOL and ARCHITECTS. The echoing and haunting vocals create an unnerving vibe, while the instrumental section goes all out in a bombastic fashion.
One of the most exciting prospects of “Tether” is the thought of witnessing these songs performed live. It’s a mouthwatering idea. Each track suggests that this album will shine in both intimate venues and massive arenas. The anthemic quality of the songs would undoubtedly have crowds singing their hearts out, forming whirlpools of circle pits and frenzied mosh pits.
“Tether” demonstrates that OF MICE & MEN are at the peak of their game. It’s evident that every band member made the most of their time in the recording studio, leaving nothing behind. The album is executed almost flawlessly, although one critique is that at times, especially on the heavier tracks, the vocals can get lost amidst the sonic chaos. Nevertheless, “Tether” is a triumphant return for the metalcore outfit. It offers plenty to enjoy for long-time fans and serves as a perfect introduction for new listeners they pick up along the way. By the end of it, you’ll be prepared with your own “warpaint,” hanging on every word, and very likely screaming along in fervor.
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