Back in 2022, as the world returned to some form of normality, emerging Connecticut outfit Anxious dropped their debut full-length – ‘Little Green House’. It saw them establish themselves as a promising emo/pop-punk group who aren’t afraid to embrace power chord-led hooks. Despite it opening doors for the quintet, touring took its toll on them, leading to vocalist Grady Allen almost quitting. As you can tell, that wasn’t the case as he, along with guitarist/co-vocalist Dante Melucci, drummer Jonny Camner, bassist Sam Allen, and guitarist Tommy Harte, have returned with their second album.
Its title, ‘Bambi’, is influenced by how you reflect on the choices you made when you were young, and how things could be different. This in part, sets up a narrative of “what ifs” as Allen and company explore unsolvable and unavoidable problems of exiting adolescence. It provides a solid lyrical foundation, yet tends to get lost among Anxious‘ melodic hardcore-influenced emo-punk sound. It’s one that comfortably embraces the driving melodies of its predecessor, enhancing them.
From the outset on ‘Never Said’, Anxious‘ approach has a widespan. It’s an assured opener that is underpinned with a radiant intensity. When paired up with the energetic ‘Bambi’s Theme’, you’re left with the early signs of an impressive album. Thankfully, ‘Some Girls’ and ‘Counting Sheep’ fulfil the potential. Both are fluffed up with “ooh” harmonies and thrive with emo-rock tendencies. The latter especially leans into a clear Jimmy Eat World influence due to its choppy execution.
As you dive further into ‘Bambi’, Anxious‘ broader scope emerges. Whether that is on ‘Audrey Go Again’s fragile acoustics or ‘Head & Spine’s hardcore rhythmic base. Here, they segue into an anthemic line of “My head, my spine, You take, take mine”. There is a collective surge that doesn’t sacrifice its raw undertone. It is also here that the duel vocal dynamic of Allen and Dante Melucci stands out, as does the impactful drum work of Jonny Camner.
Having hooks isn’t something Allen is afraid to embrace. ‘Tell Me Why’ and the punchy ‘Jacy’ flourish in this department to great satisfaction. ‘Tell Me Why’ is especially an album highlight due to its melodically effective chorus. In between them is ‘Next Big Star’ which exemplifies the quintet’s growing dynamism. Rooted in heartland rock, it lyrically captures Allen trying to protect a loved one hungry for fame. Its tone and approach are more considered, allowing Allen’s warm words to come to the forefront.
While ‘Little Green House’ closed with the luscious ‘You When You’re Gone’, this time around they opt for an optimistic finale. ‘I’ll Be Around’ sees Allen in a caring mood as he openly offers a hand of trust and friendship. It rounds out the album in a suitable manner. From asking “Are you alright?” on ‘Bambi’s Theme’ to self-inflicted pain (‘Some Girls’) and ‘Tell Me Why’s toxic relationships, ‘Bambi’s narrative is considerably one of growth and understanding. In short, Anxious seemingly do their collective best to make sense of those “what ifs”.
In an ideal world, ‘Bambi’ would be celebrated and embraced as it sees Anxious significantly show their ambitious intent. While their peers may have avoided aiming to questionably “go big” in fear of backlash, Anxious have built on what they had and simply expanded it. It results in ‘Bambi’ in an addictive record that stylistically mixes its influences from the past with relevant introspectiveness. Ultimately, the bar for Anxious‘ potential continues to rise.
‘Bambi’ by Anxious is released on 21st February on Run For Cover Records.
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