Photo Credit Jules Jones
Album Review – The Alarm – Forwards
The Alarm, the iconic British rock band, releasing their highly anticipated album titled “Forwards” on June 16th, 2023. The album is a deeply personal and emotional journey that offers listeners a unique perspective into the struggles of the band’s frontman, Mike Peters.
“Forwards” is a powerful and authentic account of Peters’ experiences while undergoing treatment for leukemia. The album captures the raw emotions he felt during his hospital stay and offers a glimpse into his struggles, fears, and triumphs. The songs on the album are written straight from the heart, reflecting Peters’ resilience, hope, and strength.
Given the context of Peters’ medical journey, “Forwards” is a remarkable achievement. It is a testament to Peters’ determination to persevere through adversity and to draw on his experiences to create something meaningful. The album is likely to resonate with many people who have gone through similar circumstances or have been impacted by cancer in their lives. The Alarm’s latest release, therefore, is not only a musical masterpiece but also a tribute to the power of human resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
The album is a collection of robust and captivating anthems that have cemented The Alarm’s signature sound throughout their career. The title track, “Forwards,” is an epic and uplifting anthem that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Along with “Whatever” and “Transition,” these tracks boast soaring choruses and unforgettable melodies that are sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners.
The album also features catchy pop/rock tracks, such as “The Returning” and “Another Way,” which showcase The Alarm’s versatility as a band. These songs are sure to get audiences tapping their feet and singing along. Meanwhile, “Next,” “Love Disappearing,” and “New Standards” are powerful alt-rock tracks that pack a punch with their driving rhythms and edgy guitars.
“Love & Forgiveness” is a beautiful acoustic track that provides a serene and peaceful conclusion to the album. Its stripped-back arrangement and heartfelt lyrics provide a welcome contrast to the rest of the album, and serve as a reminder of The Alarm’s talent as songwriters and musicians.
The standout track, however, is the six-plus minute belter titled “X.” This soaring, epic composition builds from delicate acoustic flavors to a thunderous rock sound, captivating listeners with its emotive lyrics and dynamic instrumentation. What sets “X” apart from other contemporary rock tracks is its ability to evoke a range of emotions, from contemplation and introspection to excitement and catharsis. The lyrics are poignant and heartfelt, exploring themes of hope, loss, and perseverance in the face of adversity. The instrumentation is equally impressive, with the band delivering a dynamic and immersive performance that showcases their remarkable talent and skill.
Despite the challenges Peters has faced, his spirit remains unbroken. Throughout the album, he showcases a battle-weary determination to keep moving forward, refusing to be slowed down by the obstacles in his path. This resilience is evident not just in the lyrics, but in the musical content of the album as well. The music is energetic, driving, and full of life, showcasing Peters’ unwavering commitment to his craft and his art.
One of the most impressive aspects of “Forwards” is the way that The Alarm’s music manages to be both raw and polished at the same time. The band’s songwriting is deeply personal and authentic, with lyrics that speak to universal truths about the human condition. At the same time, the album’s production values are top-notch, with slick arrangements and a deep, rich sound that makes every track feel like an instant classic.
But perhaps the most inspiring aspect of “Forwards” is the message of hope and resilience that runs throughout the album. The Alarm reminds listeners that even in the face of adversity, there is always a path forward. This is music that encourages us to keep pushing, even when the road ahead seems dark and uncertain.
Overall, “Forwards” is a triumph of both artistry and heart. It is an album that deserves to be heard by anyone who appreciates great music that speaks to the human experience in a profound and moving way. The Alarm has once again proved their creative prowess and musical dexterity, delivering an unforgettable experience that will leave listeners inspired and uplifted.
