Comeback Kid

Heavy Steps

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ft. JJ, Joe Duplantier.
Genre: Hardcore Punk.
Released: 21/01/2022
Via Nuclear Blast

Album Review: Comeback Kid – Heavy Steps

Comeback Kid is one of the biggest names in the Hardcore Punks scene right now and with the release of their new album ‘Heavy Steps’, I wouldn’t be surprised if the hype train continues. This new album is their first full-length release since 2017’s ‘Outsider’ so it’s safe to say fans of the band have been patient for a new album. The time has finally come so here are my thoughts on Comeback Kid’s ‘Heavy Steps’.

Kicking the album off is ‘Heavy Steps’. A nonstop hardcore track with a more punky twist. It’s exactly what fans of the band have come to love and I have no doubt that the chugging riffs and in your face attitude of this track will hook existing and new fans right from the off. Following that is ‘No Easy Way Out’ and talk about upping the anty. This heavy track captivates you with its anthem-like lyrics mixed with an instrumental that’s really bouncy due to a beefy bassline and great use of rhythmic timing. Similarly, ‘Face The Fire’ keeps the tempo high and keeps you headbanging. Memorable riffs and dominant drumming help to elevate this song to that next level and the breakdown is quite the thing to listen to. A real angst-filled drop that will have pit’s erupting around the world.

‘Crossed’ is an absolute beast of a track and the addition of Gojira’s Joe Duplantier allows the song to live up to its potential. This song doesn’t hold anything back and keeps its intense pace throughout. You’ve gotta give this song a spin! Driving home the more punk esc instrumental, ‘Everything Relates’ wouldn’t sound out of place amongst early 2000 punk anthems. Boasting an extremely infectious chorus, this is the kind of song that you’ll be singing for weeks on end after hearing it.

If you’re after a more heavy experience, ‘Dead On The Fence’ is the song for you! Everything from the way the riffs are played to the relentless drumming makes you want to just bang your head along to this behemoth of a track. Not to mention just how hard the breakdown goes near the end of the song. Up next is ‘Shadow Of Doubt’, a decent track that keeps the intensity going once again. I get the feeling that this song is one of those tracks that’s going to be an elite level song live however hearing it on the record doesn’t quite do it justice.

Continuing through the album and ‘True To Form’ still isn’t letting up. The song is quite punchy and really feels like a beat down esc hardcore track. Specifically, the drumming of this track gives off a lot of power and angst that will more than likely see fans going insane over in a live setting. ‘In Between’ is one of the stands out tracks of the entire record in my opinion. It’s one of those songs that just works and I couldn’t help myself wanting to repeat this track over and over again. It’s mean, powerful and intrusive. Everything a hardcore punk song should be.

The penultimate track ‘Standstill’ keeps the aggression high however it features some of the best vocal work on the entire record. The way each word flows together is pleasant to the ears especially when it comes to the chorus of the track. Finishing off the album is ‘Menacing Weight’ and I think it’s safe to say Comeback Kid have ended off with a bang! The rapid riffs mixed with a surprisingly groovy drum track allows the song to flow beautifully.

I honestly think ‘Heavy Steps’ is some of the bands best work to date and I can see these tracks capturing the hearts of old fans and newcomers alike. The Hardcore Punk scene is ever-growing and I wouldn’t be surprised if Comeback Kid is the one leading the way for the foreseeable future.