SONG REVIEW: Alpine Loop - "Backwards"
Alpine Loop returns with their heaviest offering yet in “Backwards”
Written by JD Walker
Alpine Loop are no strangers to the Ghost Killer lineup - coming off of two successful single releases in “Universal Donor” and “Keeping Score”, the shreddy Utah pop punk trio are back and better than ever with their heaviest single to date, “Backwards”. The song is heavily driven by breakdowns, face melting guitar solos, and even unclean vocals (which seems like uncharted territory for the group) and shows just how versatile a genre pop punk can be with their own unique spin on the classic sound.
“Backwards” starts off with a catchy, instantly familiar riff before kicking into a heavier, almost easycore sounding verse. Just as the listener is recovering from the shock of the normally upbeat and happy-sounding band exploring their darker and heavier side, the song takes a sharp left turn into a quieter, more reserved pre chorus before hitting hard with a groovy, hook-laden chorus. What makes “Backwards” such a shocking song is the band’s use of metalcore elements, including breakdowns (which aren’t unknown in the world of pop punk) and screaming vocals. Vocalist Travis Casper really puts his versatility on display during these sections.
As was the case with their other songs, Alpine Loop is driven heavily by their instrumentalists. In particular, lead guitarist Max Scholes put on yet another clinic on the frets with his technical riffs and of course an insanely impressive guitar solo that was reminiscent of prog metal legend Jason Richardson. The song also features tasteful drumming from Logan Casper who explored more elements of dynamic playing and threw in some tasty ghost notes during the more open sections of the song.
If you’re not listening to Alpine Loop at this point, what’s your excuse? This band truly has something to offer for everyone. The Utah trio are writing some of the most advanced and impressive pop punk music in the scene today and are undoubtedly extremely talented. The group are paving new roads for themselves in their latest offering to the alternative music scene and are starting to flourish by exploring what sounds they’re truly capable of making.