Few bands of the early-2000’s post-hardcore scene can claim they’ve had the kind of longevity Silverstein currently possess. Multiple high-charting albums, a willingness to experiment while still maintaining a distinct sound, and a solid approach to songwriting have served the band well over the years. It’s with all that info being taken into account that the band’s new single, “Bad Habits”, isn’t necessarily breaking a ton of new musical ground. It probably could have been pulled from any of their first 3-4 records, in all honesty.
However, the song does feature a ripping guitar solo from someone you might not expect – Aaron Marshall of Intervals. That alone makes the song immediately compelling to listen to, so give it a spin below.
Silverstein guitarist Paul Marc Rousseau explained the song’s themes saying, “This record largely deals with the feeling of defeat that can come from trying to overcome your demons, but ‘Bad Habits’ turns that upside down. It’s resigned rather than aspirational. ‘Bad Habits’ is a banger that takes place in that sliver of daylight between recognition and regret. After action, but before reaction. For these three minutes, we’re embracing the devil on our collective shoulder.”
Vocalist Shane Told adds, “When we finished putting together ‘Bad Habits’ I knew it was going to be a fan favorite. This song is action packed and just plain fun. It’s a rush of adrenaline and then Aaron from Intervals comes in shredding and just puts it over the top.”
Marshall’s contribution to “Bad Habits” is one of many guest features on A Beautiful Place To Drown—Silverstein may be proud torchbearers of the emo and post-hardcore scenes but appearances from artists as varied as Underoath’s Aaron Gillespie, Beartooth’s Caleb Shomo, Simple Plan’s Pierre Bouvier, and perhaps most surprisingly, hip hop fireband Princess Nokia, are indicative of the band’s wide-reaching impact and their ability to reach listeners in all worlds of music. A Beautiful Place To Drown captures this appeal in its dynamic range of sounds and styles, all made cohesive by the performances of vocalist Shane Told, guitarists Paul Marc Rousseau and Josh Bradford, bassist Billy Hamilton, and drummer Paul Koehler. Silverstein pushed themselves lyrically as well, exploring the mental duress that seems to be inextricable from the personal and societal challenges of modern life, often focusing on external perspectives and even political elements without losing the band’s trademark intimacy. A Beautiful Place To Drown is sure to please old fans and new ones alike, proving exactly why Silverstein remain a vital and powerful voice in punk rock and beyond.
