Texas-born rock band is finding a way to be more than bored, so they put out an EP on August 1. "Speak Like the Dead" acts more like a purgatory between where the band left off on their debut self-titled album and where they're musically headed in the future. But first, they're headed on tour with Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace. The band spoke with °1824 about their touring plans and creative process. Titled after the track "Downfall," the new EP captures the band's sound at its best. Lead singer Matty Bielawski believes the band's sound is in a transition period, leaning more alternative than they have before (specifically with "Bored"). The project is mainly comprised of songs written over the last few years, rather than a specific writing period. Yet their studio sessions were very back-to-back. Therefore, the most sonic liberties appear in the score.
The latter tracks push the boundaries of what makes lyrics sound chic, especially when they're nearly screamed. Deliveries like this compel the listener to move beyond passive listening if they truly wish to explore the "Abyss." The band had to push through a lot of tough sessions to present what they have today. But that's the beauty of messing up, or as drummer Graham Stanush would say, "You need to make bad s*** to tell you what not to do." This tour marks the first time Return to Dust will perform in select arenas, which is not truly something they can prepare for until it's time. It will be new for the band to occupy such a large space, but the bigger challenge comes in owning a show that isn't entirely theirs. Stanush is prioritizing the setlist and transitions in a way that sets these shows apart from other shows and introduces them to a new audience. Their first performance with Breaking Benjamin & Three Days Grace will be on August 29 in Ridgedale, Missouri.
- Ria Skyer
