Jeff Rosenstock: HELLMODE [Album Review]

Jeff Rosenstock
HELLMODE
Polyvinyl Records [2023]

HELLMODE marks the fifth studio album Jeff Rosenstock has released in the last ten years under his own name, following the dissolution of his beloved cult projects Bomb the Music Industry! and The Arrogant Sons of Bitches. This record once again perfectly captures his frenetic, genre-bending tour de force that encapsulates the anxieties and complexities of modern life, especially now still climbing out of the pandemic. HELLMODE is a striking example of punk rock’s continuing evolution and relevance in today’s world. With its raw emotion, clever lyricism, and diverse sonic palette, HELLMODE solidifies Rosenstock’s position as a pivotal figure in contemporary punk music.

HELLMODE is a testament to Jeff Rosenstock’s songwriting prowess that proves again that he is not afraid to be angry, vulnerable, or funny, often all at once. The eclectic mix of musical styles and lyrical themes that fans have become accustom to are all here but the recording process and sound swings bigger, comes across cleaner and is the most “produced” album Rosenstock has released. For some artists this tweak can be a huge mistake but for Rosenstock it makes HELLMODE a compelling and relevant addition to his punk canon. Track after track, the catchy choruses take over your head but Rosenstock also pulls back some and gives strategic pauses that let the songs breathe.

The tracks on HELLMODE still contain his simple aggressive chords, sing along gang vocals, building guitar tracks and top of the lungs screaming but this go around HELLMODE serves an excellent slice of indie rock vs. punk rock. Rosenstock’s unapologetic authenticity and his willingness to tackle the anxieties of our time head-on make this album another must-listen for anyone looking for music that reflects the tumultuous world we live in as you chime into every melody that is presented.

KEY TRACKS
“LIKED U BETTER” / “DOUBT” / “GRAVEYARD SONG”

ARTISTS WITH SIMILAR FIRE
Weezer / PUP / Ovens

JEFF ROSENSTOCK REVIEW HISTORY
SKA DREAM (2021) / NO DREAM (2020) / POST- (2018) / WORRY. (2016)

JEFF ROSENSTOCK LINKS
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Bandcamp | Polyvinyl Records

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Thomas Wilde

Thomas has a wide range of musical tastes as the NYC scene consistently broadens his pallet. Thomas is enjoying the opportunity to write at TFN and in his spare time is always looking for limited pressings of vinyl to add to his ever growing collection.

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