Mantras Dives into a Wave of Nostalgia with Alien Ant Farm’s Long-Awaited Album Release!
Back in the early 00s’ during the height of the nu metal craze, Alien Ant Farm made their mark with a playful cover of Michael Jackson’s Smooth Criminal. Fast forward twenty-three years, the California rock veterans are back with their first album in nine years, and their signature cover remains a standout in their repertoire.
While some may view their reunion as a nod to the ongoing nu metal revival, Alien Ant Farm’s sound has always transcended mere genre conventions. Their music is a fusion of reggae, pop punk, alt rock, and even jazz elements, thanks to drummer Michael Cosgrove’s eclectic influences. The album opens with The Wrong Things, a track that showcases the band’s diverse sonic palette with sun-dappled guitar riffs and infectious drum beats.
Nostalgia plays a big role in ~mAntras~, with most tracks tapping into the sentimentality of the band’s early days. Dryden Mitchell’s vocals, which have retained their unique clarity and character, evoke a wave of teenage memories. Last dAntz blends the energy of their hit single Movies with the glamour of early The Killers, while Fade and So Cold channel the infectious choruses of bands like Papa Roach and Incubus.
However, the album falters when Alien Ant Farm ventures outside their comfort zone. The title track, a cacophony of percussion, layered vocals, and rapping, feels disjointed and overwhelming. Despite this misstep, ~mAntras~ remains a solid comeback effort that will please fans of the band.
With their new album set to release this Friday, April 26th, Alien Ant Farm proves that they still have plenty to offer in today’s music scene. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their music, ~mAntras~ is worth a listen for its nostalgic charm and eclectic rock sound.
