Review
"Echo" by Of Mice & Men is a testament to their resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. Released on December 3, 2021, through SharpTone Records, this seventh studio album is a compilation of three EPs dropped earlier that year. The band's ability to adapt and overcome shines through in every track, as they recorded the entire album remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lead vocalist Aaron Pauley took the reins on production, mixing, and mastering, resulting in a sound that's authentically Of Mice & Men. The album's cohesion is impressive, seamlessly blending their metalcore roots with new elements that keep things fresh and exciting. Tracks like "Timeless," "Obsolete," and "Bloom" pack a punch with their crushing riffs and emotionally charged lyrics, while their cover of "Helplessly Hoping" adds an unexpected twist to the mix.
Critics have been buzzing about "Echo," praising its strong songwriting and the band's ability to capture the essence of the tumultuous times we've been living through. Pauley describes it as a snapshot of their lives over the past year and a half, exploring themes of loss, growth, and impermanence. It's clear that Of Mice & Men have poured their hearts into this album, delivering a dynamic and emotionally resonant experience that'll stick with you long after the final note fades. - Chase