Review Summary: The perfect soundtrack to a sad girl era.
Misery Made Me is Silverstein’s eleventh studio album and it sounds like the band is working through an existential crisis. After twenty-plus years together as a band, Silverstein proves that they have their craft down to a science. Though, at times, it seems like they rely on their established formula to get by. For fans that appreciate consistency, the lack of experimentation will not be a problem.
If the title didn’t already make it obvious, the album centers on themes of depression, loneliness and the sense of powerlessness. “Our Song,” opens the album with the words, “I’d rather die than learn my lesson,” setting a rather bleak tone. As the track continues, the song becomes more about resilience. The lyrics continue with, “Misery made me, nothing can break me down.”
About halfway through the album, Silverstein strays from their usual path with. “The Altar/Mary.” It’s easily one of the heaviest tracks on the album. It blends aggression with softness. Silverstein’s does a wonderful job of transitioning from the more aggressive build up of The Altar to the emotional landing of Mary.
If you have ever felt you were in an inescapable situation then, “Live Like This,” is the song for you. While some of its lyrics teeter on the edge of sounding corny, the sentiment is relatable. The feature from nothing, nowhere. adds a layer of truth and vulnerability. Despite being on the cheesy side this song ends up being very catchy.
While Misery Made Me feels as though Silverstein is playing things safe, the album remains heavier and more cohesive than their previous release. Even in their comfort zone, Silverstein manages to deliver an album that is full of energy and emotion with twist of hope.
