Echo Scale: ★★★★★ (5)
Aberdeen’s angriest optimists, Palejoy, are back with “Next Goal Wins,” a track that perfectly encapsulates the glorious, slightly sticky mess of modern emo. For those of us currently staring down the barrel of another day with no clear direction and a burgeoning collection of novelty socks, this one hits harder than a rogue shopping trolley on a windy Tuesday.
We’ve all been there. That soul-crushing realisation that despite hitting a certain age, the grand plan remains stubbornly unwritten. Palejoy, the self-proclaimed “emo torchbearers” of Aberdeen, have not only bottled that existential dread but turned it into a surprisingly uplifting (in a self-deprecating sort of way) anthem. “Turning 30, nothing to show for it. Societal pressure, I’m fucking done with this,” vocalist Dale Sutherland delivers with a level of misery that feels less like a complaint and more like a shared sigh. And honestly, who can argue with that sentiment?
Hitting the Emo Sweet Spot: A Connoisseur’s Delight
When a band drops names like Microwave, Hot Mulligan, Basement, and Jimmy Eat World, it’s either a bold promise or a catastrophic misstep. In Palejoy’s case, it’s a bullseye. “Next Goal Wins” isn’t just influenced by these giants; it feels like a spiritual successor, weaving together the bleak hopelessness of Microwave, the whimsical confessionalism of Hot Mulligan, and the timeless guitar work of Jimmy Eat World. The result is a sound that’s both intimately familiar and delightfully fresh, proving that sometimes the best way forward is to look back with a knowing wink.
The vocals on “Next Goal Wins” are a masterclass in apathetic delivery. Sutherland’s voice, devoid of anything resembling a chirpy disposition, perfectly channels the “I’ve given up but I’m still here, goddammit” attitude that defines the track. While some might crave the higher-pitched yelps of a Tades from Hot Mulligan, Palejoy’s bleaker, more resigned approach is precisely what makes this song so potent. It’s the sound of someone who has tried, failed, and now just wants a decent cup of tea and five minutes of peace.
Guitars That Get It (And Drums That Demand Attention)
Guitarists, prepare yourselves. This track takes a leaf straight out of the Jimmy Eat World playbook, with shades of Hawthorne Heights and even a subtle nod to Kayak Jones. The guitar lines are not just well-chosen; they’re perfectly constructed, embodying the melancholic vibe without ever veering into full-blown grunge or the saccharine territory of pop-punk. This is a difficult tightrope to walk, and Palejoy traverse it with the grace of a particularly well-trained cat.
And then there are the drums. Oh, those drums. They sound absolutely colossal, and those tom fills? Chef’s kiss. It’s a testament to both the performance and the production (hat-tip to Mark Morrow) that they’re allowed to feel so massive. This sonic heft is beautifully complemented by the bassist, who provides depth and body without ever overstepping. They’re not looking for groove here; they’re serving an emotive voice, buying into the artistic direction with admirable commitment.
The Art of Not Growing Up (Or At Least Not All the Way)
True to their self-described “arrested development” vibe, the single’s artwork is a playful wink to classic video game covers, harking back to simpler, less existentially taxing times. And if the accompanying music video, featuring the band goofing around with beach inflatables, doesn’t put a wry smile on your face, then frankly, you’re probably too grown up for this.
“Next Goal Wins” is more than just a song; it’s a rallying cry for anyone feeling stuck in neutral, a cathartic release for the inner turmoil of adulting when you’d rather be playing video games. It’s sad, yes, but it’s also a powerful affirmation that it’s okay to feel, to fail, and to keep pushing forward, even when you’re running on fumes.
Palejoy have truly struck gold with “Next Goal Wins.” This isn’t just a new favourite; it’s a necessary addition to any “life’s a bit of a dumpster fire but at least I have good music” playlist. Congrats, Palejoy – keep those beautifully miserable anthems coming.
