ALBUM REVIEW ~ FORREST ISN'T DEAD ~ 'THE END OF EVERYTHING'

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Imagine the melancholy synth beats and punk energy of artists like Christian Death or Joy Division and combine that with the cool modern tones of Gorillaz and alas that’s what you get with Atlanta-based alt-rock band Forrest Isn’t Dead. The band captures their own style with their wistful lyrics and moody yet hopeful undertones that’s almost impossible to compare them to any other artists, however. Fronted and founded by Forrest Kleindienst with a skilled lineup, the band has been playing shows and touring to promote the upcoming release of their debut album The End of Everything dropping September16th .

While several singles have been released already along with music videos showing impressive views on YouTube and Spotify, the twelve-track album is sure to lure in a larger audience. Diving into the hypnotic first track, “The Funeral” kicks off with colorful imagery conjured from the lyrics, and a heavy synth following a mesmerizing melody. Combine those with the haunting strings on the bridge that enhances the song into another level of intensity, giving the listener an idea of what’s to come.

“Here We Are,” is one of the earlier singles released, an indie-pop song where Kleindienst’s vocals really shine, showing range and strength, whereas the next track on the list, “The Light” sets a spotlight on the groovy guitar riffs and the powerful solo. A thrilling horror-inspired music video accompanies “Born or Made.” The song features a simple but fun hook and the right amount of attitude thrown into the noise of the verses and bridge. “Born or Made” is without a doubt one of the recognizable dance bops of the album. An emotional desperation is beautifully cast in the mood and lyrics of “Earth,” which shares a two-part music video with another track titled “Heaven.” “Can we fall back down to earth,” is the contemplative thought repeated throughout the song.

“Goodbye,” charms listeners with the dark poetic imagery of the lines and fierce finality of its subject. An upbeat yet melancholy jam with an acoustic outro that solidifies the soulful ending. Dreamy chords and a shoegaze-style drumbeat creates the tone for “Deputy Bones,” an ethereal synth-wave ballad. “Is it too soon to die?” are the airy vocalizations harmonizing among the warm instrumentals, taking a break from the heavy attitude and energy of the album to a cozy sensation of nostalgia and dreamscapes. “Deputy Bones” is a deeply comforting gem to find yourself lost in. “Drowning,” returns the sound to a fun dance rhythm with a relatable message of anxiety and impending doom, something many can find relevant yet build strength from with the carefree vibrations of the song. “Paper Kingdom” closes out the album with the band’s notable heavy lyrics hidden in energetic synth-waves and quirky riffs.

The End of Everything emanates an array of distinct emotions and sounds, a treasure cove for those who desire to get lost in a record and drown out the outside noise. With hints of indie- pop, shoegaze, and post-punk tones, Forrest Isn’t Dead doesn’t disappoint, showcasing cleverly crafted imagery, expression, and originality in their debut album.

I’m Music Magazine Writer Alice Kearney