Icarus Phoenix has unleashed their captivating new album, I Should Have Known the Things You Never Said, a work that invites listeners on an emotional rollercoaster through raw vulnerability and introspection.
The opening track, “The Thing You Never Told Me,” begins with a brief ambient intro that builds anticipation before the band’s bombastic sound takes over. This lead-up feels like the sonic embodiment of waiting for something profound, setting the stage for a journey that feels as if your feet are finally touching the ground again after a long time adrift.
The second track, “Live. Give. Lose. Grow.” introduces a darker tone, both musically and lyrically. With a slight twang that adds depth, this anthemic piece captures the essence of self-discovery amid life’s upheavals. The line, “When confronted with major life changes, we find out who we are at our core,” resonates deeply throughout the album, encapsulating its central theme. This track is a powerful emotional epic that will surely capture listeners’ hearts.
As the album progresses, “High Tide” offers a refreshing shift in mood with its folksy influence. Despite being one of the shortest tracks, its emotional weight lingers long after the final note. The one-liners in this song are particularly poignant, ensuring they stick in your mind for days.
“In The Blood” takes a meditative turn, enveloping listeners in its mesmerizing and fluid instrumentation. While it may not demand immediate attention, its beauty lies in the way it invites reflection and contemplation. Conversely, “Doctor! Doctor!” strikes a balance between bright instrumentation and subdued, heartfelt vocals. This track beautifully showcases Icarus Phoenix’s ability to juxtapose light and dark elements, creating a rich emotional landscape that is both touching and profound.
“Hatillo 2” returns to the band’s signature sound, evoking the familiar essence of Bright Eyes while maintaining their unique identity. The slow build of this track complements the emotions felt in “Doctor! Doctor!” and demonstrates the thoughtful track ordering throughout the album. Each song flows seamlessly into the next, enhancing the overall listening experience.
At just under six minutes, “Painting” is one of the longest tracks, yet its storytelling captivates and transports the listener into a vivid narrative. The power of Icarus Phoenix lies in their lyrical prowess and the way they craft instrumentation that highlights their words without overshadowing them.
The album then transitions to “When it’s time to go (I don’t know if it is),” an upbeat track that injects a burst of energy into the mix. With a bouncy beat and powerful emotion, this song stands out as a testament to the band’s versatility and ability to traverse the emotional spectrum.
The collaboration on “The Sword and Harp” with Neva Dinova and Corbino brings a familiar influence that enriches the album’s diversity. This track perfectly balances the emotional weight of “Hatillo 2” with the more danceable energy of “When it’s time to go (I don’t know if it is).” Lines like “We confront sadness and dance away depression” linger in the listener’s mind, encapsulating the album’s powerful themes.
Finally, “Kanashimi” serves as the epic conclusion to this emotional journey. Clocking in at nearly nine minutes, the track sweeps through a myriad of emotions, providing a gentle landing after the intense ride of the previous songs. Its lush instrumentation and exquisite layering create a beautiful tapestry of sound that lingers in your thoughts.
I Should Have Known the Things You Never Said is a stunning and emotional piece of art from Icarus Phoenix. It masterfully explores the complexities of human experience and invites listeners to confront their own truths. As the band aptly states, “When confronted with major life changes, we find out who we are at our core.” This album is a journey worth taking—one that will resonate deeply and encourage repeated listens as you uncover its layers time and time again.
