Continuing to evolve their sound, the pop-punk act Magnolia Park has gone through some changes to where they are at with their latest album, VAMP. The resulting record is one that is entirely modern, rather accessible, but spends much of it’s time dwelling in areas that modern metal fans are bound to get some enjoyment out of. It’s the type of record that can easily sway outsiders to give heavier music a shot if they haven’t been able to do so until this point.
Swirling together metalcore, gothic, nu metal, rock, and their pop-punk roots, VAMP is a highly dynamic and hook-filled concept album centered on an anime-esque story featuring cyborg vampires (yes, you heard that right). But outside of the concept, it’s still an equally engaging release even if you don’t buy into the concept. Rumbling, wall-of-sound riffing laced with electronics and bounce kick the album off with “Pain,” where a soaring chorus gives off some Linkin Park vibes while the rollicking guitars move into a light breakdown territory while catapulting the song’s energy. “Shadows Talk” opens in a massive way, and the electric combination of those dark guitar riffs and upbeat electronics makes for a thrilling combination. “Cult” is really the first track give really push vocalist Joshua Roberts’ soulful vocals front and center, and the chorus absolutely shines because of it. It’s a smooth chorus that works well off the driving, metalcore riffing on the verses.
The dark, almost-trap sound of “Worship” puts it into an intriguing blend of gothic and R&B vibes, something you really don’t hear much of in this genre. Bouncy electronic beats, moody gothic energy, and a nice escalation of heaviness helps to make the track stand out as one of the more mysterious moments on the release. If there’s one stand out track though, it has to be that of wisely chosen single “Swallow.” Roberts’ vocals are at their most soulful, the hooks are the most accessible and addictive, and the more melodic cut really takes off. You will have the chorus stuck in your head for days without much effort. Of course, if that’s not your thing, it’s immediately followed up by “Omen,” which drives forward with almost video game inspired energy and visceral combinations of electronics and riffs, not to mention some solid screams.
Bound to grab Magnolia Park some fans from all walks of life, VAMP is a solid example of what can be accomplished in the modern metal scene. It successfully melds together a variety of different influences, both within the genre limits and outside of them, and does so in such a way that despite being able to say the names of the influences their wear on their sleeves, it still feels fresh regardless. For that, it’s a solid win, and showcases Magnolia Park as a group to watch out for in the future.