Rock Out with Ashton Irwin's Brand New EP: 'The Thorns'
Australian drummer, singer and songwriter Ashton Irwin makes a long-awaited comeback with his new EP “The Thorns”, offering a sneak peek into his upcoming album ‘BLOOD ON THE DRUMS’
NEW RELEASESREVIEWS
LEJA-JOSEPHINE BECKMANN
6/13/20242 min read
Nearly four years have passed since the award-winning drummer launched his solo career with the release of his debut album, "Superbloom". Since then, fans have eagerly awaited new music. At the start of the year, Irwin subtly hinted at a new single to be released in March.
After a slight delay, he dropped 'Straight To Your Heart' last week, heightening fans' anticipation for what's to come.
The first side of ‘BLOOD ON THE DRUMS’ features an eight-track sequence composed to accompany the listener through various situations in life based on the Australian's personal experiences. The sound of it definitely differentiates itself from the tone of his debut album. 'Superbloom' felt like a journey through a different world, seamlessly transitioning from captivating forests to dreamy sunsets, and even to video game levels. Most of the tracks began with soft guitar strums, delicate vocals, and gentle drumming, gradually building up to heavier drums and more powerful vocals in the choruses.
This one is, as the title already spoils, heavily based on the drums. ‘Breakup’, ‘Straight To Your Heart’ and ‘BLOOD ON THE DRUMS’ open with prominent drums accompanied by backing vocals, distorted speak-singing and various types of guitars, including acoustic ones.
Via @ashtonirwin
Despite the EP carrying the elements of many different genres, such as Pop, Rock, and EDM-Rock, ‘Indestructible’ stands out with a dynamic blend. The track begins with a fascinating synth-driven intro before swiftly transforming into a vibrant homage to the Pop-Punk era of the 2000s-2010s. The infusion of powerful drumming, distorted guitars, and the fast-paced beat fuels a nostalgic spark that's impossible to ignore.
The whole EP overall is a rollercoaster ride, beginning with tracks that make you feel like “I need to drive somewhere cool to listen to this for the first time” (as fans like @gracelizabetht shared on Twitter). It then transports you to entering a hot, sunny landscape filled with the sound of energetic rock music. From there it guides you to driving around, reflecting on life and acknowledging how fast it could pass, and lastly to personal growth after a row of disheartening events.
“Blood on the drums is an ode to every step of my life that I’ve taken so far. It’s a pleasure to provide a new soundtrack for you, ripped right out of my soul and offered to anyone that wants to listen.” via @Ashton5SOS on Twitter.
This is evident in the lyrics, even if not every song resonates personally with the listener, there's still a big possibility to find a sound one will like in the diverse production by Feldmann and Irwin.
'BLOOD ON THE DRUMS' will be officially released on July 17th. Until then, you can show your support for Ashton Irwin through various means through the website.
Watch the music video for "Breakup" here: