“Death of a Bachelor” Panic at the Disco
Album Release Date: January 15, 2016 Fueled by Ramen and DCD2
If someone was to ask me to describe “Panic! at the Disco” prior to listening to their fifth studio album “Death of a Bachelor,” I would have effortlessly described their style as emo and punk-pop meets rock. Even in the brief seconds right before hitting play to listen to and review this album, my thoughts took me back to the days “I Write Sins Not Tragedies” was on constant replay in my car. I imagined front man, and last remaining original member Brendon Urie in a gothic steampunk themed top hat and red tail coat, sucking me into the music with unique vocal sound and eclectic style. With these ideas of past Panic! At the Disco experiences and expectations in mind, I was extremely surprised at what I discovered.
As the album began to play, the first tracks “Victorious” and “Don’t Threaten Me with a Good Time” had met my expectations of what I know and love about “Panic! At The Disco”. Though there were some minor variations in tune that included more rock n roll and a slight hip hop groove than emo feel. There were also some continuations from songs on their previous album “Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die!” like “Emperor’s New Clothes” which I found out, is actually a sequel to the track “This is Gospel.” Once I reached the tracks “Death of a Bachelor” & “Impossible Year” the vibe and sound took a quick turn from edgy pop to smooth and jazzy. It had a Sinatra-like glamour to it, which was completely unexpected. I instantly felt as if I should be swaying and dancing in a jazz club in the 1940’s. It was different but brilliant! My personal favorite from this album is “LA Devotee” since it had me immediately dancing in my chair, wishing I was California cruising with the music turned up loud enough for all to hear over my attempt at carrying a tune.
This album was extremely entertaining and enjoyable! I definitely give it a thumbs way up! Hats off to Brendon Urie for a flawless performance both recording and writing for this album. Panic! At the Disco has gone from emo punk and top hats to rock n roll meets Sinatra swagger. Well done.
To find out more about Panic! at the Disco check out their website: www.panicatthedisco.com
*Photo credit: I do not own any rights to the album cover featured.