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Reaching an extraordinary milestone, the legendary Canadian pop-punk rock outfit Sum 41 has been a cornerstone of music for the past 27 years, delivering infectious tunes and impactful hits that resonate with fans worldwide. With a stellar track record that includes over 15 million records sold globally, a Grammy nomination for their electrifying track “Blood in my Eyes,” numerous Billboard chart-toppers, 2 Juno Awards, a prestigious Kerrang! Award, and a string of Alternative Press Music Awards, Sum 41 has solidified their place in music history. So, when the band announced their final bow was coming last May, unveiling the double album “Heaven :x: Hell” as the ultimate chapter in their illustrious career, it was a fitting culmination for their incredible journey. For this last chapter, Sum 41 has teamed up with Rose Records, a fitting gesture to bring this story to a close.
“Heaven :x: Hell” stands as a testament to Sum 41’s most ambitious and compelling work over the past 27 years, serving as a triumphant farewell that showcases the band’s unwavering dedication to their fans. In vocalist Deryck Whibley’s own words, “I love Sum 41, what we’ve achieved, endured, and stuck together through, which is why I want to call it quits,” vocalist Deryck Whibley says on the new album. “There were so many times we could’ve broken up. For some reason, we kept sticking it out. I’m proud of that. It’s the right time to walk away from it. I’m putting all of my energy into what’s ahead. This is going to be the biggest tour of our lives, and I want to make it the best show we’ve ever done. That’s it.”
This sentiment echoes throughout the album, making it a poignant and impactful swan song. The Heaven side of the album opens the gates with 10 tracks that encapsulate Sum 41’s iconic pop-infused punk rock sound, transporting listeners back to a time of youthful exuberance and rebellious spirit. Tracks like “Waiting On A Twist Of Fate” hit with an infectious energy that’s both catchy and adrenaline-fueled. The already released single “Landmines” as well as “I Can’t Wait” are vintage punk anthems infused with modern flair, boasting unforgettable choruses and irresistible melodies. “Landmines” is primed for massive sing-alongs with its soaring “oh woah oh’s,” while “I Can’t Wait” is bound to incite a raucous mosh pit with its raw angst.
“Time Won’t Wait” captivates with its infectious melodies, but beneath the surface lies a deep well of hurt and pain that resonates throughout the song. The track skillfully blends catchy tunes with raw emotion, creating a poignant listening experience. On the other hand, “Future Primitive” injects a frenzy of energy into the album, reminiscent of the old-school punk vibes of The Offspring. The song’s high-octane tempo and unrelenting rhythm pay homage to the band’s punk roots, delivering a thrilling and nostalgic ride for listeners.
While the remaining tracks on the first part of this double album may slightly lower in intensity, and I mean slightly, excluding the high-energy “Johnny Libertine,” a 92-second powerhouse reminiscent of bands like Pennywise and NOFX, the rest of this first half remains packed with purpose and emotion. For instance, “Not Quite Myself” delivers a pop-rock driven track that offers an introspective plea for help, questioning if anyone is truly paying attention. Additionally, “Radio Silence” stands out as a slow-burning epic masterpiece that tugs at the heartstrings, evoking memories of Simple Plan’s “Untitled (How Could This Happen To Me).”
Hell, quite literally, takes on a profound meaning as we delve into the more darker and heavier side of the album, no doubt influenced by Whibley’s tumultuous journey battling alcoholism and his subsequent path to recovery, making it a fitting title for the second part of this double album. Unveiling a more aggressive and metal-inspired facet of the band, these concluding tracks resonate with a raw intensity that is undeniably poignant. The blistering guitar riffs, intense solos, all accompanied by relentless drumming and powerful rhythm sections, deliver a sonic onslaught that surpasses any previous endeavors by Sum 41.
Easing into the final tracks, “Preparasi a Salire” (“Climb Up”), an introspective interlude that symbolizes emerging from personal turmoil and overcoming challenges. Following this poignant introduction, a series of powerhouse tracks unfolds, each offering a unique perspective and musical intensity.
“Rise Up” ignites a sense of determination and resilience, all the while pummeling a relentless heaviness with a hard-hitting break down, while “Stranger in These Times” delves into the complexities of navigating a rapidly changing world, capturing the essence of feeling out of place.
“I Don’t Need Anyone” showcases a defiant spirit of independence and self-reliance, driven by bold instrumentation and empowering lyrics.
Tracks like “House of Liars” explore the darker realms of deceit and betrayal, weaving a narrative of trust shattered and illusions unraveling through sharp, evocative lyrics, while “You Wanted War” channels pent-up frustration into a powerful musical confrontation, capturing the intensity and passion of standing up against adversity.
Sum 41’s rendition of “Paint it Black” infuses their unique sound with a modern edge, paying homage to the original while adding their own artistic flair. Meanwhile, “It’s All Me” provides a moment of introspection and vulnerability amidst the album’s relentless energy, showcasing a different facet of Sum 41’s musical versatility.
Closing out the album, “How The End Begins” not only serves as the culmination of Sum 41’s musical journey but also acts as a poignant reflection on the cyclical nature of life’s intricate paths. “Now it’s the end, we can’t get it back. Why doesn’t anything good ever last? I gave it all I could give, only to question it. This is how the end begins and I should’ve known.” Through emotive lyrics and haunting melodies, Sum 41 closes a chapter and looks forward to what the future may bring.
Verdict: 4.5/5
Ethereal Metal 
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