Frank Iero returns with ‘Parachutes’ – a chaotic punk rock frenzy that’s high on riffs and low on self-esteem. His band, The Patience (formerly The Cellabration), remains unchanged from the touring line-up that followed the release of 2014’s ‘Stomachaches.’ Two years of touring has clearly solidified the band and the transition to studio is very much based on a live energy and dynamic.

‘Parachutes’ sits comfortably between Iero’s better known former outlets – a rough and ready punk rock that’s edgier and more genuine than My Chemical Romance, but not quite as full on as Leathermouth. Even the token acoustic number – the country inspired ‘Miss Me’ is gritty and uncomfortable. He’s clearly picked up a few vocal tips from Gerard Way, most notably on ‘They Wanted Darkness’ and ‘Dear Perocet, I Don’t Think We Should See Each Other Anymore’ which arguably come closest to sounding anything like said previous band.

Opener ‘World Destroyer’ sets the pace with a stoner riff that Kyuss would be proud of before meandering through hardcore and alt-punk a la Alkaline Trio. While ‘I’m A Mess’ echoes the punk-pop styling of the Movielife and early Brand New.

“Parachutes are life saving devices. We rely on them to bring us back from the brink of death. Whether we fall or jump they are the only things keeping us alive,” says Iero in the promo for this release. You do get the sense throughout ‘Parachutes’ that this is the sound of four dudes playing for their lives, like it’s the last record they’re ever going to make.

Frank Iero continues to release solid records that feel increasingly like he’s more comfortable than ever on his own terms. Long may it continue.

3.5/5

Frank Iero and The Patience links: Website|Facebook|Twitter|YouTube|Soundcloud

‘Parachutes’ by Frank Iero and The Patience is released on October 28th on Hassle Records

Words by Adam Lewis (@adamlew86)