Bands like Brand New, Balance and Composure, and Letlive. have given birth to a new generation of rock acts: bands that bring melancholic lyrics into a fast and dynamic environment, showing their heart on their sleeve whilst throwing themselves around a stage. And thatâs where Canât Swim enter. They blend elements of aggressive rock and pop-punk together, combining it with standout vocals from frontman Chris âKrierâ Loporto which has, in turn, given birth to their latest release âDeath Deserves A Nameâ.
And from the start, itâs obvious that this EP was created with aggression, speed, and fury in mind, whilst retaining heartfelt lyrics that are delivered with passion. âFall apart/No one will knowâ vocalist Krier yells/sings during âYour Clothesâ, which sets the scene perfectly for what this New Jersey quartet are aiming to deliver: tracks that are soaked in emotion; tracks that, despite containing melancholy lyrics, are delivered in a fast and furious tempo.
âWay It Wasâ and âRight Choiceâ see a solid bassline forming the foundations of some killer songs, which are fleshed out with adrenaline and bold riffs. During âCome Homeâ, with its plaintive refrain of âSo come home nowâ, it becomes clear that Canât Swim have trimmed any unnecessary fat off these tracks, leaving lean and hard ones in place. It gives off the impression that the group wanted to bring a raw and meaty EP to the table.
The vibrant title track âDeath Deserves A Nameâ brings about a false sense of security; they bring the tempo and energy down a notch, before launching into a final, bruising chorus at the end. From start to finish, Canât Swim havenât let down their guard, racing through a small batch of tracks that are deliciously energetic and furious, yet are engaging with slightly sad lyrical matter. All in all, itâs an excellent release to sing your frustrations and angst to.
JESS TAGLIANI