We caught the band on their first run of shows since their covid-induced hiatus.

Where previous effort, 'Proper Dose', saw the band experimenting with a number of different sounds, 'I Want to Disappear' could be viewed as a hard-reboot. Six years ago, the band were experimenting with indie-rock, and borrowing from Brit-pop. It seems that lead singer Parker Canon has-at least for now-shelved his inner Liam Gallagher, in order to return to the band’s roots.

Much like The Early November's 2012 album 'In Currents', this self-titled record is very much a grower. There’s undoubtedly excellent songwriting here, but it lacks the immediacy of some of their earlier work. However, as an exercise in establishing the band among the scene’s elder statesmen, this is definitely a success.

In essence, everything you could want from a nu-metal album is covered on P.O.D.'s new record 'Veritas': DJ scratches, check; rapping, check; low-register growling, check.

A career spanning set and a great night in Manchester was had by all in attendance.

With their new self-titled album, Neck Deep have identified their lane, and crashed through the genre’s median barrier to get back into it. It’s a welcome return to form for one of pop-punk’s leading lights. Although it’s just begun, this is sure to be a contender for pop-punk album of 2024.

Even if 'SC\SSRS' is just a one-off release from Taproot, it’s an essential one for fans. While it definitely ranks highly among the band’s back catalogue, fans of the recent nu-metal revival, and of heavy music in general will also find something to love on here.

The title of Yellowcard’s new EP, 'Childhood Eyes', couldn’t be more appropriate. Their first new release since a surprise return last year sees the pop-punk veterans revisiting the sounds of their past, to make something contemporary, and ultimately quite brilliant. This is a true statement of intent, and an excellent way to set expectations for this most unlikely of comebacks.

'Thanks But No Thanks' is a short but sweet blast of gravelly-voiced, emotional punk-rock. Much like their obvious influence The Menzingers, their pursuit of connection has led them to specialise in a gruff, melancholic brand of nostalgia.

If you’re not yet convinced by Real Friends, this will do little to change your mind. However, long-time fans will love this, and this collection of songs will almost certainly find its way into their playlists for years to come.