SONG REVIEW: Breakaway - "Death Valley"
Breakaway present an anthological masterpiece with “Death Valley”
Written by JD Walker
Since the days of My Chemical Romance, the fans of emo music have been smitten and captivated by songs that tell a story (looking at you specifically, Black Parade). It seems that alternative music in general has slowly transitioned to the exploration of more introspective concepts, and the idea of telling a true story through song seems dated. It seems dated until, of course, it’s pulled off right. Breakaway’s new single, “Death Valley”, tells a story in both the lyrics and video with beautifully executed instruments that bring solvency to the artistic experience as a whole.
The song begins with a heavenly harmonization of the main vocal hook delivered by vocalist Sam Biland. The band quickly jumps in with chiming guitars courtesy of Rich Mammoliti and Miki Bonic and a solid groove between bassist Mitch Borton and Matt McNeil. The dynamic exchange between the instrumentalists was particularly impressive, ebbing and flowing with the natural course of the song while playing off of Biland’s instantly iconic vocal delivery.
Breakaway prove to be yet another incredible band from the land down under, as the quintet hails from Sydney, Australia. Australians seem to have a knack for writing incredible melodies and having impeccable note choice, and Breakaway are no exception. “Death Valley” transitions between verses and choruses seamlessly, and the choppy bridge was transitioned flawlessly by the chiming lead guitar that served as an ambient, atmospheric bridge.
The video for “Death Valley” is particularly interesting - while it’s primarily a performance video, the setting is in the middle of a field full of bonfires, alcohol, and drunken dancers having the time of their lives. The video is divided into six sections, each chronicling a female partygoer as she prepares to enter the show and eventually makes her entrance to “Death Valley”, having the time of her life while the band rocks out. The lyrical content plays as an anthem for the disenfranchised (in the words of the band) and has the elements of a cohesive story while sharing a theme of frustration at the current state of the world.
“Death Valley” is impeccable. While that may sound like a bold claim to make, it’s rooted in truth. Between the orchestration of the instrumental, the top notch vocal delivery and harmonies, production value, and the accompanying music video, it’s hard to pinpoint a possible weak spot on this release. “Death Valley” is absolutely worth the listen, so much so that you likely won’t listen to it just once.