How It Feels To Be Lost

How It Feels To Be Lost- Album Overview

"How It Feels To Be Lost" is the fifth studio album by the American post-hardcore band Sleeping With Sirens, released on September 6, 2019, through Sumerian Records. The album marks a significant return for the band, showcasing a heavier sound that departs from their previous work, while still retaining the melodic elements that fans have come to love. Produced by the seasoned duo of David Bendeth and the band’s lead vocalist, Kellin Quinn, the album reflects a period of introspection and growth for the band, both musically and personally.

The record features a total of 12 tracks, including standout singles like "Leave It All Behind" and "How It Feels To Be Lost," which encapsulate the themes of despair and self-discovery. The songwriting on this album is deeply personal, with Quinn exploring feelings of anxiety and uncertainty, resonating with a generation grappling with similar emotions. Collaborators on the project include musicians such as guitarist Nick Martin and drummer Gabe Barham, who contribute to the album's dynamic range and hard-hitting sound.

Musically, "How It Feels To Be Lost" combines elements of post-hardcore, alternative rock, and metalcore, creating a sonic landscape that is both aggressive and emotionally charged. The cultural significance of this album lies in its honest portrayal of mental health struggles, positioning Sleeping With Sirens as not just entertainers, but advocates for addressing emotional wellness among their audience. This release revitalized the band’s presence in the scene, bridging the gap between old fans and a new generation discovering their music.

Review

The sound of "How It Feels To Be Lost" is marked by its raw energy and a polished production that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics. The album opens with "Leave It All Behind," setting a tone of urgency and desperation, while tracks like "Dying to Believe" showcase the band's ability to blend heavy instrumentation with melodic hooks. Kellin Quinn's vocals remain a standout feature, oscillating between soaring choruses and gritty verses, embodying the turmoil expressed in the lyrics.

Lyrically, the album delves into themes of loss, self-identity, and the search for hope amidst chaos. The candid exploration of anxiety and depression is both relatable and poignant, allowing listeners to connect deeply with the music. However, while the heavy sound and introspective lyrics are compelling, some tracks may feel formulaic to long-time listeners of the genre, lacking the experimental edge that characterized their earlier work.

Highlights

• Strong vocal performance by Kellin Quinn, showcasing emotional depth.
• Powerful instrumentation that blends melodic and heavy elements effectively.
• Relatable and introspective lyrics that resonate with a broad audience.

Weak points

• Some tracks may come off as formulaic compared to earlier works.
• A few songs could benefit from more dynamic shifts and experimentation.
• The heavier sound may alienate fans of their softer, earlier material.

Overall evaluation

"How It Feels To Be Lost" successfully captures the struggles of a generation while maintaining the band's signature sound. While there are moments that may not reach the heights of their earlier albums, the raw honesty and powerful performances make it a compelling addition to their discography.