Alpha Wolf – Half Living Things – A Game-Changer
Photo by piikann
Band: Alpha Wolf
Album Title: Half Living Things
Label: SharpTone Records
Release Date: 05/04/2024
Alpha Wolf‘s latest album, “Half Living Things“, is a game-changer for the band. As someone who jumped on the Alpha Wolf bandwagon after their last album “A Quiet Place to Die” rocked my world (and likely did the same for many others), diving into this new release was an emotional rollercoaster. This album isn’t just a continuation of their sound—it’s a bold step forward. It’s like they’ve taken everything that made them great before and cranked it up to eleven.
“Half Living Things” can’t easily be put into one genre. It’s a melting pot of metalcore, nu-metalcore, and probably a bunch of other labels too. But you know what? Who cares about labels when the music is this good?
And let’s talk about that album cover. It’s like something straight out of a 90s rap album, and I mean that in the best way possible. Some folks might hate it, but for me, it’s iconic. Love it or hate it, you can’t deny it’s memorable—just like the music on this album.
Let’s dive into the sonic journey of “Half Living Things” by Alpha Wolf, track by track, first stop: “Bring Back The Noise”.
1. Bring Back The Noise
“Bring Back The Noise” is the first single the band dropped on November 24, 2023. From the moment I first heard it, I was hooked, and that hasn’t changed. The energetic groove and headbanging-worthy riffs set the stage for what’s to come. They even described it themselves as a “party-starter” which is fitting for the opening of an album. With scratches reminiscent of 90s rap, on theme with the cover of the album, it’s unmistakably an Alpha Wolf record from the get-go.
2. Double-Edge Demise
“Double-Edge Demise” took me by surprise with its “TICK TOCK” motif from the very start. I wasn’t sure how to feel about it at first, I found it a bit tacky and wasn’t quite sure how to feel about it. However, as the song progressed and the motif reappeared, it quickly grew on me. The grooves and guitar outro sealed the deal, and now I want more.
3. Haunter
“Haunter” is the last single they released just hours before the album dropped in the European timezone. It grabbed my attention with its atmospheric and haunting intro notes — a perfect match for its title. Mitchell Fogarty on drums and John Arnold on bass drive the song forward.
I particularly loved the lyrics on this one, especially lines like “I am living in a habitual nightmare” or “Idle hands channel depravity and calligraphic brain matter elegies” addressing the internal struggles we often face.
I’m so alone in a house full of people, so loud, I can hear myself drown
Lochie Keogh‘s (vocalist) delivery perfectly captures the emotion behind the lyrics which creates a powerful connection with the listener. The eerie ending, echoing the beginning of the song, lingered in my mind long after the track ended.
4. Sucks 2 Suck (feat. Ice-T)
Getting back to the singles, the second one that the band dropped, “Sucks 2 Suck“. I think it is safe to say that it caught everyone’s by surprise with its unexpected collaboration featuring the iconic rapper Ice-T. It quickly became a favorite of mine. It’s just such a groovy and fun track to vibe with. Lochie‘s flow, coupled with Ice-T‘s cameo, made for an unforgettable track.
Despite my initial doubts about those cheers in the chorus, they grew on me real fast. I can’t wait to yell them out the next time I catch Alpha Wolf live on stage!
5. Whenever You’re Ready
“Whenever You’re Ready” hit me right in the feels with its emotional balladry. As the third single they dropped, following the energetic vibes of “Bring Back The Noise” and the groovy fun of “Sucks 2 Suck,” I was expecting something heavy. And they delivered, just not in the way I anticipated.
This song serves as the “Bleed 4 You” of this album. It is a poignant reflection on losing someone you love, which is a sentiment we can all relate to in some way or another. Lochie‘s vocals, intertwined with the heartfelt lyrics, struck a chord deep within me. Lines like “I’ll sing your favorite songs with tears flowing on” hit particularly close to home.
I wasn’t expecting clean vocals, especially without a featured artist. So the simple yet infectious chorus delivered by their bassist John was a delightful surprise. His voice is truly beautiful, and I hope we can get more of his vocals in the future.
“Whenever You’re Ready” quickly skyrocketed to the top of my favorite tracks list, and I just can’t seem to get enough of it.
6. Pretty Boy
Feeling a bit emotional? Well, get ready to snap back to reality with the next track, “Pretty Boy“. It’s a reminder that we’re still in Alpha Wolf territory. The song doesn’t hold back on the heaviness. And here comes Lochie with his lows taking center stage. I couldn’t help but chuckle when the music paused for the line “you’re really not that cute”. It’s just so cheeky, and I love it! Plus, we’re treated to more clean vocals, what else could I ask for. I know what, a filthy breakdown. That ending breakdown is absolutely insane, in the best possible way. It’s another certified banger that leaves you craving more once again.
7. Mangekyō
Kicking off the second half of the album, “Mangekyō” emerges as one of the heaviest tracks, delving into religious themes and visceral imagery. The lyrics make us question the essence of divine intervention with lines like:
What god can infer all your genius from art?
What god?
What god ever gave a fuck?
I was naive enough to think the simple but effective mid-song breakdown was as heavy as it gets. However, Alpha Wolf quickly proved me wrong by unleashing an even more intense breakdown. The sheer intensity of the track had my heart racing. And I couldn’t help but wonder if there might be casualties in the crowd when they perform this song live in the future.
8. A Terrible Day For Rain
“A Terrible Day For Rain” is quite the ride. It’s packed with wild energy and chaotic rhythms that keep you on your toes. Sabian Lynch and Scottie Simpson really tear it up on guitar, delivering some seriously crazy riffs. And just when you think you might need a breather, they hit you with an ambient breakdown, giving you a moment to catch your breath before diving back into the madness.
9. Feign
And the journey rolls on—no additional breaks in sight! “Feign” didn’t quite grab me at first. Even though I like its heaviness and killer riffs, it didn’t quite hit the spot. But it definitely grew on me with its slow groove and evolving guitar tones getting lower and heavier. And that switch-up in the second half adds a whole new vibe, showing off Alpha Wolf‘s range once more.
10. Garden of Eyes
“Garden of Eyes” immersed me in its saturated sound and war-like drums. The chaotic rhythms and unsettling guitars created kept me on edge, but Lochie‘s vocals grounded me throughout the chaos. This song is a wild ride—I never knew what was coming next. Alpha Wolf keeps us guessing with every move. And of course, it wouldn’t be complete without another killer breakdown at the end. I just can’t get enough of it—this song is truly captivating from start to finish.
11. Half Living Things
Getting closer to the end with the title track, “Half Living Things“. The lyrics give off some serious Alice in Wonderland vibes, but like, if Wonderland took a dark turn into horror territory. Lines like “Follow the rabbit hole, leave your skin at the door” really set the mood. The song kicks into high gear with an intensified 2-step rhythms, like one last burst of energy. It might not be my absolute favorite, but it’s still a fun listen!
12. Ambivalence
Closing the album on a poignant note. “Ambivalence” starts with a soothing melody that instantly draws me in. I can’t help but close my eyes and get lost in the music. It’s like a gentle wind-down after the rollercoaster ride we’ve been on.
Then the instruments and vocals kick in with an epic entrance, taking the song to new heights. And would you believe it? More clean vocals to ease the soul. This song feels massive. With lyrics like “I keep blaming myself until I melt down, I know there is something wrong with me”, it hits you right in the feels.
The song left me with a mix of sadness and calm as the album comes to an end.
Final Thoughts
From bold and angry to a sense of despair, the album takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in this final song. It mirrors the mental journey many of us navigate and offers solace in our shared experiences.
“Half Living Things” is a testament to Alpha Wolf‘s growth and creativity. They’ve delivered a diverse range of sounds while staying true to themselves, pushing genre boundaries in the process. It’s refreshing not to be boxed into a single genre. I’ll undoubtedly have this album on repeat.
Don’t pass up the chance to embark on this captivating journey yourself.
Favourite song: Whenever You’re Ready
Favourite breakdown: last breakdown of “Mangekyō“
Memorable Moment: Experiencing “Ambivalence” for the first time