Ogbert the Nerd - What You Want
A Tier
Following up on their breakout 2020 album I Don’t Hate You, Ogbert the Nerd finally returns with What You Want. Let me tell you, don’t talk about a sophomore slump with this band! More Emo with strong Post-Hardcore and Pop-Punk roots is found on here with fewer songs but a bit more focus than their last album. A powerful and melodic (if a bit rough around the edges) vocal performance from shutty emphasizes the solid, kinetic and diverse instrumental accompaniments by the rest of the band. It’s quite refreshing to hear a band that sounds like this that doesn’t also sprinkle the twinkle into their songs haphazardly, even if I love that.
Bird Bone - Лейтмотив
A Tier
One of the most impassioned records of the year comes by way of Russia's Bird Bone. The group's sophomore LP is a potent mix of Midwest Emo and Pop-Punk with blistering Math Rock and Screamo sensibilities. Excellent production amplifies the virtuosic guitar playing with memorable melodies being a priority. The vocals are some of the most sincere and emotive of the year, even if you don't understand what they are singing. This release proves that the universal language is, in fact, Emo.
Riley! - Keep Your Cool
A Tier
Heavily inspired by modern greats like Free Throw and Prince Daddy, Riley! bursts forth with their third album, which is probably their best. The band channels their frustrations into a manifesto of banger riffs, catchy screams and a who's who of Emo features. Betwixt song after song of cathartic and energetic track lies the odd respite, greeting the listener with a sad embrace. In short, this album is Riley!’s statement to the world that they belong in the conversation with other modern greats.
see through person - every way of living
A Tier
After a few years in hibernation getting this album ready, see through person finally unveils their long-awaited debut album. The band caught fire early in the 5th Wave for their Math Rock-laden EPs filled with ridiculous riffs, rough production values and emotional fervor. With over two years away from the Emo spotlight, every way of living is the grand opus that the band was destined to create. The album takes cues from their previous work with intricate song structures, overwhelming guitar and shouted vocals, but also introduces some slower songs and sections to counterbalance the insanity. This album immediately puts see through person back on the map as one of the most exciting things going in Emo today.