An eponymously-titled album is usually reserved for a debut or an album released at a time of change. In the case of The Early November’s seventh long player, it’s the latter. The band have always been on an internal journey, trying to find the most definitive and authentic versions of themselves and it seems they’ve finally arrived at that destination with The Early November. It’s an album on which a pair of artists dig deep into their collective soul to make the record they’ve always wanted to, and subsequently it’s a record for everyone.

The Early November are a band on a mission and attesting to a sense of urgency opening shot ‘The Empress’ doesn’t mess around. It appears which a chunky staccato riff and proceeds to muscle its way to the centre of your cranium. That an emo outfit sound so pushy might come as a surprise to some, but The Early November are certainly no shrinking violets and there’s always been a certain defiance to their modus operandi that makes for a pleasing tension of opposites. There’s a tenderness and a vulnerability to the band’s lyricism, but its often tempered by a heavy riff or suchlike. Yet, that’s just one of the many facets that make The Early November such an intriguing listen; loud sections nestle next to quiet and light makes shade which renders this album the perfect accompaniment for lonely, late night contemplation or a rowdy beach party.

The Early November now operate as a two piece featuring original members Ace Enders (lead vocals, guitar) and Jeff Kummer (drums, percussion), and reduced numbers have made for the band’s most focused effort yet. There’s a singularity of vision here that ensures everything is pointing in the same direction and heading to the same destination. While this album isn’t a concept album, it has that type of unified feel and it is best listened to as such. It’s a record that flows like an old school long player with the band taking the listener to loquacious lows on ‘The Fool’ before lifting them up on feathered wings on the following ‘Tired Of Lying’.

Ebb and flow, push and pull, this is a record that takes you on an emotional roller-coaster, and as such you might feel drained at its conclusion, but you’ll also feel strangely cleansed.

• The Early November is released via Pure Noise Records on 14th June 2024.
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Track List:

1. The Empress
2. The Magician
3. About Me
4. What We Earn
5. We Hang On
6. The Fool
7. Tired Of Lying
8. The Dirtiest Things
9. The High Priestess
10. It Will Always Be