A band that has continued to grow and leaps and bounds, both in popularity and in sound, Unto Others sits in a unique spot. Their ’80s metal meets goth meets new wave meets etc etc continues to find new ways to morph into intriguing soundscapes. From their Idle Hands days in striking gold to a niche sound and cultivating it through their 2021 full-length Strength, Unto Others has stayed hungry and creative. Something that Never, Neverland, their third full-length, takes full advantage of as they test new boundaries and approaches with a fervor that should thrill many within the scene.
Given their initial genre splashing 6 years ago, many bands would be content to stay in their lane and provide more of the same. Not Unto Others, who push the envelope in both directions of melody and aggression this time around. With the melodic side, you have some gorgeous cuts like “Angel of the Night,” with it’s gloomy gothic tones and puts it through a ballad filter, whereas “Sunshine” might just be the most upbeat and happy sounding song the band has crafted. On the other end, “Flatline” is a vicious, thrash-infused track that all but buzzes with riffs, and “Momma Likes the Door Closed” brushes shoulders with punk influences.
That said, there’s plenty of ‘classic’ Unto Others in some way, shape and form, which still feel fresh and inventive. “Butterfly” blends gothic atmosphere with an almost ’80s stadium rock feel at times, managing to bring a feeling of glum while rousing you with the chorus. “Suicide Today” relishes in it’s pop-sensibilities and massive hooks with one of the album’s strongest choruses. While “Time Goes On” cranks up some of the retro rock vibes and punchy riffs that deliver massive amounts of energy when you crank up the volume. Lastly, “Cold World” weaves around ’80s new wave and The Cure vibes in more melodic fashion.
Continuing to progress and expand their sound, it’s impressive that Unto Others have been able to stretch it in so many directions. Yet their signature sound remains intact, proving it’s winning formula. Never, Neverland showcases Unto Others’ strongest set of songs to date, grabbing the listener with downtrodden hooks and refusing to let go. A band more than worthy of the buzz they have been receiving.