Album Review: As December Falls - 'Happier'
Being alternative means being sad, hopeless and pessimistic. But with the help of As December Falls, everyone could be Happier.
Both praised and cautioned for being a fully independent band, the Nottingham outfit have returned with their second full-length, Happier. Following from their 2019 self-titled debut, As December Falls have knocked their sound up a notch, both in style and quality. Working through an isolating 2020, they've come out the other side with eleven unique, catchy and especially relatable tracks.
The first sneak peek fans got of the new record was 'Afterglow', which also acts as the first track on the album. Loud and proud, bouncy and fun, it gives the world what they wanted since that 2019 debut. As December Falls' discography is a completely specialised take on pop-punk; one exclusive sound that's given by all members, with Bethany Hunter's feel-good vocals being that audible cherry on top. That signature sound will guide fans through this new era, and the album, smoothly and bittersweetly.
One of the most important tracks on the record is 'Tears'. A brand-new take on female empowerment in music, this is one of the most personal tracks as Hunter's vocals tell a story from a scarily common point-of-view. As pop-punk is revitalised for a new decade, with a new generation at the helm, the 2020s sees women leading the way - as the track's marching band-like beat gives the impression of - and not taking any help or accepting any pushback. While women in the scene still feel like they're "running out of time" to win the metaphorical "race" to achieve, they can and they will make it in the end. There's no more need for a male "saviour" to rescue them from failure, as these women aren't damsels in distress. They're queens, they're empresses, and they're ruling the world.
It's a woman's scene, and Bethany Hunter is a leader through this epic rock revolution.
As music comes back from it's 2020 lull and the pace picks back up for alternative acts, As December Falls are racing forward to be at the forefront for this renewed scene and with Happier., there could be a bright and cheery chance they will win. They can march on, fight on, play on.
The darkest nights will always be cured by happier days. If you had to trust anyone on being happier, trust As December Falls.
Words by Jo Cosgrove