Often in metal, the root to heaviness is often the most simple. You can easily distort the guitars and make everything heavy as nails. Nothing subtle about it, and it works. It’s worked for plenty of bands. But it’s a bit more rare to get something that aims further into emotional heaviness instead of being a matter of blunt force. To that end, post-hardcore act SENNA is a newcomer that is already at home exploring the more subtle side of things. Stranger to Love is a nuanced debut that hits in all the right spots.
One of the most interesting things about SENNA is their subtlety. In listening to a song like “Potential” is how absolutely radio-friendly it sounds. It’s built on massive, playful hooks from both the rhythm section as well as vocalist Simon Masdjedi. There’s an almost r&b sense at times in its vibrant and almost flirty approach. It’s a fun and enjoyable song with just a little bit of heaviness sneaking in at the right times. But makes it (and much of Stranger to Love) more interesting is that Marcel Dürr’s guitar riffs and melodies are much more intricate below the surface, and it’s something you’ll pick up on with more listens. It’s the type of thing you can really listen to at times and dive deeply into each track. “Hurricane” is a rousing opener, full of energetic riffs and a spirited sing-a-long chorus, but the same ruling applies to it as you begin to dig into the rolling grooves of bassist Fabian Cattarius. “Rain” opens up with some ear-catching almost proggy guitarwork but also soars with an emotive chorus.
That gets to the other important piece regarding SENNA – that emotive heaviness. “Blackout” may have the looks and sounds of a full-on anthem of a track, but does a good job of staying grounded by it’s swelling emotional message and punchy breakdown. “Drunk Dial Anthem” digs its claws in deep not with it’s hook-y flowing melodies but rather it’s poignant lyricism addressing longing and obsession. Likewise, the hard rocking energy of “High Note” contrasts excellently with it’s more self-reflective message, creating a soaring track that’s just as much substance as it is style.
Stranger to Love hits hard with emotional resonance, and allows for some deep diving into each song to get the biggest thrill from it. That said, even enjoyment at face value should be enough for most, as the big hooks, flashy choruses, and urgent melodies make for a great driving album in the car to sing with. Whatever your preference, SENNA introduces themselves as an outside-the-box player that’s worth seeking out if you want something with a vibrant, fresh sound.