A.R.S.O.N. sees Story Of The Year leaning into their strengths once again, transforming frustration, introspection, and doing what they do best- making you feel.
The title track opens the record up and is an attitude-induced track that shows the band taking no prisoners, which is followed by “Disconnected,” which explores feelings of regret, emotional detachment, and the uneasy realization that some bonds have shifted beyond repair. While upbeat and poppy, the track hits hard both lyrically and musically.
As the record unfolds, “See Through,” “Into The Dark” and “Fall Away” (the latter of which features Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach and is a fun cameo that you never would have expected) are quintessential Story of the Year tracks and echo the vibes and essence of the band’s earlier discography.
“3 a.m.” is another poppy, upbeat track that talks about laying in bed, battling the obsession you have when you can’t stop thinking about the person you’re in love with or who you’ve hurt and the internal battle of regret and love while “My Religion” is an emotional, honest and vulnerable track that explores the feelings of realizing you’re the only one dedicated the relationship you’re in and the gutting feelings that come with that.
“Halos” is an anthem if there ever was one, delving deep into moments of weakness and susceptibility to needing that one person, screaming out for them and just hoping they hear you and come back and is one of the biggest standout tracks of the record along with “My Religion.” These two are the perfect two-punch knockout combo.
Songs like “My Religion,” “Halos” and “I Don’t Wanna Feel Like This Anymore” are exactly what you want from Story of the Year. They stay true to their roots, lyrics and style that made them so beloved while keeping things fresh and feeling new.
Lyrically, this is Story of the Year at their best. There are so many lines that will make your jaw drop, invoke tears and make you smile.
If you just got into SOTY, you’ll love A.R.S.O.N. but if you’ve been a long-time fan of the band, you’ll fall in love all over again. The record is honest, emotional, vulnerable and shows the band wearing their hearts on their sleeves, just like they always have.
Rating: 9.3/10
-Reggie Edwards