Baltimore-based 4-piece Making Friends As Adults are an alt-rock band making a name for themselves with their energetic live performances and introspective lyrics. They’ve just released their debut album, New Road, a personal reflection of relationships, struggles with mental health, facing the adversity of our current social and political climate, overcoming challenges, and knowing when to move on.
“Drawing on influences from multiple genres, the album highlights MFAA’s ability to combine elements of melodic punk, mathy emo, post-hardcore, indie rock, and groovy pop,” says the band. “Overall, “New Road” represents a new beginning for Making Friends As Adults.“
After a brief instrumental intro, the album kicks immediately into gear with “Bad Time” and its punctuated riffs and stand-out vocals. The energy on the catchy chorus is infectious, and the backup vocals help to make the song shine. Keeping the energetic momentum going, “Cupid’s Mistake” brings fast-paced pop-punk style and swagger. The breakdown is impeccable, and not to be missed – this sounds like it would be a hell of a song to experience live.
“Lilypad” brings a sonic shift with a mellower, pop-tinged style, moving right along into “Like A Bullet”. One of my favourites from this collection of songs, its moody rock feel and addictive riffs perfectly complement the vocals. The transition in style from verse to chorus is seamless and engaging, and those explosive drums really drive the song.
For a bright near-ballad, look to “It’s All You” to deliver a singalong song that touches on heartbreak and relationships. “Monster,” on the other hand, leans into a gritty appeal. This is an utterly cool track, with a vibe that fits the song’s title. Driving guitars push the chorus, soaring vocals take charge, and the punchy verses add a lot of interest There are so many moving parts to this song, you’ll want to listen a few times to catch them all.
Emo fans, “Keep Walkin'” is sure to connect, and its groove-laden style adds a layer of accessibility. From there, we have another personal favourite – the album’s namesake, “New Road”. The dual vocals work beautifully together, and the moody style is atmospheric. The lead guitar is the perfect backdrop for the singer’s powerhouse delivery, hook-filled and dynamic. “This Thing That I Call Love” brings a faster pace, with punk-driven drums, and a melodic twist that marries genres. The album concludes with “Find Less,” a mellower offering with an emotional delivery that makes it the perfect closer.
Overall, New Road is a collection that boasts the perfect amount of instrumental heaviness to balance the sweetness of the vocal style. Melodic, yet raw and unflinching. Making Friends As Adults creates a sound that incorporates pop-punk, emo, post-hardcore, and a slight nod to indie pop. It’s a nostalgic homage to the late 90s/early 2000s alt sound, with lyrical depth and relatable themes.
Stream New Road here:
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