ROCK ERA 21
Ah, rock music in 2024—like your favorite pair of ripped jeans, it’s been through a lot but somehow still fits. Sure, it may have traded in the leather jackets for TikTok trends, and those once rebellious guitar riffs now come with a side of algorithm-approved playlists. But is rock still relevant? Well, it’s like that one uncle who shows up at every family gathering—you can’t ignore it, even if it’s changed a bit.
With legacy bands still selling out stadiums, like Foo Fighters, Green Day or The Rolling Stones (still touring, somehow), and new acts blending rock with pop, hip-hop, and even EDM, rock isn’t dead—it’s just trying on new outfits. It might just look a little...different. So, with my hopes high I still look out and forward to both the live performances and hopefully a track or two from any and all genre-blending musicians that I can get. After the Goth Emo moment at Hershey, I will head to Prudential for a newer wave of pseudo rock music that I am proud to say I am a fan of.
Twenty-One Pilots’ ability to blend various genres while also keeping their fans hooked on the lyrical journey. With the newer project Clancy; with the album opening up with "Overcompensate," a haunting, atmospheric track that sets the tone for Clancy’s internal battles. Fans have likened its sound to the more brooding elements of Trench, but with a stripped-back, vulnerable edge.
Then there’s the anthemic "Vignette," which mixes rock and electronic elements, invoking the rebellious energy of earlier hits like "Jumpsuit." But to me the real core of Clancy lies in tracks like "Lavish" where the band’s signature sound of rap-infused vocals and melodic choruses create a balance between isolation, mocking and hope.
With their upcoming performance at the Prudential Center, I am excited to see and experience Clancy in all its live glory. Of course, fans won’t just be treated to the new material. The concert is sure to feature a mix of songs from their older albums, creating a dynamic journey through their discography. Imagine hearing the existential ponderings of "Stressed Out," the triumphant chords of "Ride," and the raw emotion of "Car Radio," all woven together with the fresh sound of Clancy.
