Album Review: AFI – Bodies

June 10, 2021 | Reviewed By Nick Davarias

It’s been 3 years since AFI dropped their explosive EP ‘The Missing Man’ and fans have been chomping at the bit for the follow-up album to 2017’s ‘AFI (The Blood Album)’. The band have not been shy about releasing singles for ‘Bodies’ as they have already released 7 tracks from the album and fans have been vocal about their excitement for each release. I was extremely excited when AFI announced ‘Bodies’ so it is my pleasure to present my review of it!

The album kicks off with the debut single ‘Twisted Tongues’, an energetic track that utilises Davey Havok’s synonymous vocal style to add personality to the track. Unique drum patterns mixed with atmospheric melodies capture the AFI feel right from the get-go and it’s clear to see why this single has been so successful since its release. Following that is the track ‘Far Too Near’, a more upbeat track from the alt-rockers. Having a large emphasis on the track’s chorus allows it to bury itself in your mind for weeks on end and I can safely assume that this song is going to become a fan favourite in no time. That’s certainly one way of starting an album!

Funk and style are what you can expect from the track ‘Dulceria’. The predominant bass line makes the song feel like an 80’s psychedelic hit which isn’t exactly what I thought I’d be getting from an AFI album but I’m pleasantly surprised. My only gripe with the song is that it feels a little too repetitive as it nears the end as there isn’t much progression to the tracks instrumental.

‘On Your Back’ gives off a similar vibe to the bands 2018 EP ‘The Missing Man’. It’s short, sweet and full of energy. Once again, the style of song has shifted showing just how diverse AFI has become over the years. Continuing with the style shift, ‘Escaping From Los Angeles’ has been a real talking point since it released with ‘Twisted Tongues’. I haven’t been this divided on a song in a while and I can see both sides of it. The song is very charismatic and feels like a very simple, repetitive track made for fan participation while still trying to implement the essence of AFI into a more mainstream esc track. Personally, I find the track to be quite a lot of fun.

Continuing down the album, ‘Begging For Trouble’ may be the black horse of the album. I found myself addicted to this track when it dropped as the B-side to ‘Looking Tragic’ and I still get excited when I hear it come on to this day. It’s one of those tracks that just gets you in a groove and it gives me similar vibes to the bands hit song ‘Medicate’. However, it comes as a bit of a disappointment as it is followed by my least favourite track on the record. ‘Back From The Flesh’ is not going to be for everyone and, rather disappointingly, I am one of those people it doesn’t land for. It’s a very sombre entry that feels like it’s trying a little too hard to be atmospheric.

Up next is ‘Looking Tragic’ and despite it being paired with my personal highlight for the album, I think this is a close second to the throne. AFI are at their best when they turn up the volume and lay it all out on the line and this song is a shining example of that. I cannot wait for AFI to unleash this one in front of a crowd as it will be nothing short of beautiful carnage. Thankfully, this is followed by the unique yet enjoyable ‘Death Of The Party. A much more industrial feel is given off from this track which could leave some fans of the band to instantly dismiss this track however, I found it to be balanced extremely well with AFI’s groove, so I’d recommend going into this track with an open mind.

Approaching the end of the album and the penultimate track ‘No Eyes’ is here to ensure the party doesn’t stop. A return to a more familiar-sounding AFI and it is a blast to listen to. Memorable riffs and a beat full of attitude elevates this track to height’s it has no right being at. With such a powerful build-up, does the album fall flat at the death? I’ll start by saying ‘Tied To A Tree’ is not your typical AFI track. The atmosphere is the key focus of this track and I think the band have nailed it this time. The song’s chorus feels larger than life as Davey’s vocals layer over themselves to give the words being sung more impact.

I have to say I have had a blast listening to ‘Bodies’. The album is so diverse that it has something for everyone and I think AFI’s tendency to experiment with new styles and techniques has paid off in a huge way with this release. I highly recommend this album to anyone even slightly interested in alternative music.

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