Hotly anticipated, and much awaited, the sophomore record from Black Veil Brides has a huge weight of expectation surrounding it’s release. It could have buckled under the weight of this expectation too, so it gives me great pleasure in saying that, undoubtedly, Set The World On Fire completely transcends any level of expectation, and completely smashes through every preconception and concern that anybody could ever have had about it.
It is a storming album, and from start to finish it is just packed full of anthemic, essential and unforgettable modern day rock songs. Often touted as a metalcore act by the popular press (?!?) there is minimal screaming on here, as the Black Veil Brides opt to focus on a full throttled rock and roll assault, chock full of huge anthemic choruses, more hooks than a fishing tackle box, and incredible guitar work, be it in pummelling riffs, driving licks, or busting solos. Merged together with the unmistakable rock croon of iconic front man Andy Biersack (nee Six), Black Veil Brides have a potent mix, which sets this album on fire (pun intended) from the very first listen.
Opener New Religion is a powerful and stunning choice of opening track, as a thunderous and powerful metal riff signals the start of the record, which subsides into the first of many anthemic hooks, before the spoken word outro declares “together we will set this world on fire, this is the new religion, amen”. The title track subsequently follows, and powers in with yet another sterling chorus, and definitive hook, that will get lodged in your head for days. The energy never stops either, with lead single Fallen Angels, one of the catchiest rock tracks of the years following this, before another incendiary riff and powerful driving beat signals the arrival of Love Isn’t Always Fair, something which happens yet again on God Bless You.
Just when you think it cannot get any better, Rebel Love Song kicks in with the most dynamic and heart stopping intro possible, coupled with the best chorus the band have ever written. It is one of the best songs I have heard in recent times, and is set to become a live favourite in the not too distant future. It is simply an awe-inspiring rock song.
The latter part of the album does not disappoint either, and the unquestionably high standard remains true to the closing of album finale, Youth And Whisky. Saviour is a heartfelt and reflective acoustic led number, backed with some fine electric guitar work laced over the top, and the introducing chord progression on Ritual is just outstanding. Legacy and Die For You are also two excellent tracks too, and there is just not one ounce of filler on the record at all.
Set The World On Fire is 11 tracks of rock and roll mayhem, crunching guitarwork and blistering solos, coupled in with some fine vocal performances from the diminutive 20 year old Biersack. The hype machine may continue to roll, but there is no doubt that Black Veil Brides easily justify their growing reputations on this album. They are not going anywhere, and WILL set the world on fire on their way to the top of the pile over the coming months.
Stunning stuff.
10/10
“Fight for all you know, with your backs against the wall” – Set The World On Fire
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