Connecticut-based melodic hardcore outfit Anxious have been steadily carving out their unique niche in the scene since their arrival in 2016. Their 2022 debut album 'Little Green House' not only demonstrated the band's ability to infuse raw introspective energy into tracks, but also showcased a unique evolution that deeply resonates with existing fans and intrigues new listeners. This sound has evolved from their phenomenal EPs 'Carved', 'Promo 2019', and 'Never Better', marking a journey that is both exciting and promising.
Hot off of their critically praised debut, Anxious are back with sophomore record 'Bambi', marking a new chapter in their evolution. On 'Bambi', Anxious build on their emo and melodic hardcore roots with shimmering alt-rock textures and more intricate vocal harmonies. This unique sound, a blend of emo and melodic hardcore, is sure to excite and intrigue their fans, who will appreciate the band's commitment to their distinct style. There are hints of Title Fight’s influence on the band scattered throughout, and the little moments of shoegazey glory pay tribute to them aptly.
Vocalist Grady Allen states that 'Bambi' was a potential competitor for the band's name, found buried in an old memo on his phone. This personal discovery would eventually become the title of the band's second full-length album, adding an element of looking back toward one's beginnings, apt for an album deeply rooted in exploring themes of leaving adolescence behind and the challenges of adulthood.
The album kicks off with the emotionally charged 'Never Said', its soaring chorus cutting deep against a backdrop of crashing drums. Meanwhile, 'Counting Sheep' is an instant singalong, fusing bright guitars with a driving rhythm section. This could quite easily become a firm favourite at alt nights! Elsewhere, 'I’ll be Around' slows things down with introspective lyricism and reverb-soaked chords, showcasing the band's softer side to close things out. With tracks like this, Anxious prove they’re more than just rising stars—they’re future festival headliners in the making. Anxious, you have our attention!
The combination of emotional highs and lows in 'Bambi' creates a roller coaster of feelings, enabling listeners to connect their own experiences with the music. Anxious does an excellent job blending these elements by smoothly transitioning from reflective verses to powerful choruses that are sure to encourage crowd participation on their upcoming tour.
Anxious have crafted a beautiful fusion of emo and melodic hardcore with 'Bambi'. The album encapsulates the complexity of growing up, where heartbreak can coexist with celebration, making it a deeply relatable soundtrack for navigating the challenges and triumphs of life. It is a portrait of the growing pains and challenges of growing into adulthood while touring relentlessly for the past few years. Previous comparisons to bands like The Wonder Years and Hot Mulligan are still valid, yet Anxious' sound has always been distinctively their own and is made even more so here.
With 'Bambi', Anxious solidify themselves as one of the most vital voices in modern emo and melodic hardcore. Their ability to craft deeply personal yet anthemic songs makes this an album that will stick with listeners long after the final track fades out. Whether you’ve been following them since their early EPs or are just discovering them now, 'Bambi' proves that Anxious are a band truly coming into their own. Much like the leap from 'Never Better’s textbook, raw, melodic hardcore to 'Little Green House’s master class in pop-punk craftsmanship, 'Bambi' is a welcome and distinct evolution in Anxious’ sound. Taking elements from their entire discography and refining them down into something truly unique, it shows a marked leap in ability and maturity that still keeps hold to everything that makes the band what they are. A true tour-de-force of emotional hardcore with pop-punk influence that draws from the bands that paved their way, but is ultimately utterly unique - and definitively Anxious.
Anxious will be touring heavily in support of the album, with a US run kicking off this Spring with support from Ultra Q and Stateside.
'Bambi' will be released on February 21st 2025 via Run For Cover Records.
Words: Andrew Nile
Photos: Anxious
Comments