Review Summary: "Chasing Shadows" is not a flawless album, but you can't help but smile like an idiot more than a few times while listening to this new chapter of Angels and Airwaves.
Angels and Airwaves' most recent release "Chasing Shadows" was a very anticipated release for many. Frontman Tom Delonge had promised an older AVA sound. We've all witnessed Delonge lying to us before about his music, being 3 albums short last year, so does he come through this time?
Hell yeah.
“Chasing Shadows” is an EP that delivers, even if it is four tracks long. It has so much condesed into it wish so many things to talk about, so let’s get started.
First off, “Chasing Shadows” doesn’t feel like recent releases. Parts of it, specifically Track 4 “Chasing Shadows” feel like they are from the I-Empire and Love era; but as for the rest of it, theres not as much secret meanings or messages about God and the meaning of life, it uses vocals and catchy beats to trap you in. “Bright” and “Upbeat” are the ways I would describe the feeling.
Tom DeLonge did not craft this alone, though, and as much as we can talk about how great he is, we need to recognize the other 50% of the work and input ~ Mr. Ilan Rubin. This man keeps every song going with interesting drum parts and sweet fills to take the spotlight, even if it is just for a few moments.
Back to DeLonge though, it is very obvious that he has improved his vocals. There are less “Tom-isms” then their usually are, and his singing blends better to the music instead of trying to stand out. He has some sweet harmonizations, too.
Now, first impressions are everything, which is why “Overload” is so kickass. Along with, well, the rest of this album, it starts off one way and takes a sharp turn in a different direction. Whether it be out-of-place overly processed parts that don’t match (“Chasing Shadows”), oddly muffled snare drum (Voyages) or strange synthesizers (“Overload”), they all turn into an amazing sound very quickly, but the issues are still there, which disrupt the flow in a huge way.
After the introductions are done, the songs really pick up. “Overload” picks up with some very nice drums, guitar and bass, all of which blend with DeLonge’s vocals. The chorus is also a powerhouse, sounding very nice, alongside a post-chorus that makes you smile. “Voyages” gets into a very “Bullets in the Wind” sound, with amazing harmonies in the pre-chorus. The chorus is heavier and faster than the pre-chorus, but you get used to it after the first time around and welcome it with open arms. “Chasing Shadows” is stunning, although some lyrics fall flat and the sound is very different then the previous track. The chorus sails high like a man on some major esctasy, making you feel like your in the clouds. Although one could complain the rest of the song is not as good, you need to have good to appreciate the amazing.
“Artillery” is a track with different issues than the intro sounding off. The hard-hitting chords knock you off your feet every time you start to slip into the song. The chorus takes you to a different world that is built up by quiter guitar work in the pre-chorus. The world fades every time the chorus repeats, however, as well as a weak ending that feels like a balloon deflating.
There are little things to appreciate, even if there are some issues with the flow and a few other parts. Upon further listens, one can hear all of the little effects added in. There are too many to name here, so next time you listen, listen really closley, you’ll find new and interesting things.
Overall, “Chasing Shadows” is a very bright and uplifting album. It is pulled down by some flow issues and a few other problems here and there, but shows much effort and enthusiasm that was put it, and you can’t help but smile like an idiot more than a few times.
3.5/5
Favorite Track - Overload
Least Favorite Track - Artillery
