Song of the Day: Death Lens – ‘Cold World’

Death Lens began as a confessed “typical party garage punk” yet over the 13 years, the LA alt-punks have evolved using their platform to speak on issues that matter to them. Experiencing constant harassment by police and heavy gang violence, the “five Brown boys from La Puente” have used their DIY mindset to push for immigration reforms in their community.

The title track from their upcoming album, ‘Cold World’, is an example of what Death Lens are about. “A stench of rot, watching the world decay,” reflects Bryan Torres on the track. A rousing brand of post-hardcore backs him with an underpinned punk rock element. The end result is a sturdy and compelling number, assisted with tender harmonies and sonic guitars from Jhon Reyes and Matt Silva.

For Death Lens, ‘Cold World’ ideally sets the lyrical tone for the rest of the album. Its eleven tracks see Torres and company contemplate his place in the world, examining social injustices, and current political and world unrest, reacting directly and honestly. “’Cold World’ just seemed to fit in the days we’re living,” Death Lens said on the album’s title choice. “It’s the desire to thrive in a deteriorating world all while pushing those who feel like there is no hope and hoping to give them a second wind, a sense of hope.”

Produced by Brett Romnes (Hot Mulligan, Mom Jeans), ‘Cold World’ allowed Death Lens to expand their sound. With more reverb and bigger hooks utilised, as the title track and ‘Vacant’ demonstrate, there’s still a raw punk-angst to Death Lens. Unified, both creatively and in their values, Death Lens aims to heat things up with ‘Cold World’.

1. Fucked Up
2. Disturb The Peace
3. Turnout
4. Limousine
5. Nothing’s Forever
6. Vacant
7. Bruised
8. Memory Hotline
9. Not Enough
10. Cold World
11. Lo Que Será