Earlier in 2020, Hollywood Undead released Vol. 1 of their New Empire. This album hit differently than their normal heavy hitting sound. It felt like it was tackling deeper feelings than “Coming in Hot” and other party anthems. Vol. 1 felt vulnerable and empowering.
Now Vol. 2 has released and it’s continued this evolution in their sound. In addition to some rad new tracks, there are some great collaborations with Papa Roach’s Jacoby Shaddix and Ice Nine Kills’ Spence collaborating on a track, and extra features with Gh0stkid and Kurt92.
The first four tracks have that party vibe Hollywood Undead is known for. The album makes a transition that causes pause with “Monsters.” This song reminds me a bit of Machine Gun Kelly’s newest album. This track is relatable with all the “real monsters” we face in life with drugs, depression, and the bills that are always coming, “you cannot escape, they’ll hold you down.”
“Idol” starts with a crazy “American Horror Story” sound, and instantly goes into a staccato rhythmic rapping. The heavy guitar in between the fast-spitting lryics packs so much energy into the sound. It’s broken up with a soft piano just before the final chorus, really isolating the lyrics and making them sink in with “I ain’t your idol son, I’m just a gangsta. I cannot save you, son, I ain’t no savior.” This song repeats two more times on the album, featuring different artists.
The new album is out December 4th on all purchasing and streaming platforms. You can pre-order it here, and all your Christmas shopping is done!
Tracklist:
- Medicate
- Coming Through the Stereo
- Ghost Out
- Gonna Be Okay
- Monsters
- Idol
- Coming Home
- Unholy
- Worth It
- Heart of a Champion Feat. Jacoby Shaddix and Spence
- Idol Feat. Gh0stkid
- Idol Feat. Kurt92
