Jeff Rosenstock – Hellmode (Neon Pink)

Hellmode, Jeff Rosenstock’s fifth solo album, explodes onto the scene like a supernova, hurtling you through a kaleidoscope of emotions amidst a backdrop of societal anxieties and personal reflections. It’s a sprawling odyssey, weaving between punk rock fury, introspective ballads, and moments of orchestral grandeur.

Rosenstock’s trademark wit and social commentary are alive and well, tackling themes of climate change (“Future Is Dumb”), political disillusionment (“Soft Living”), and the constant barrage of online noise (“Life Admin”). But beneath the biting critiques lies a vulnerability rarely seen before, explored in tracks like “Liked U Better” and the epic “Doubt,” where he grapples with loss and self-doubt with raw honesty.

Musically, Hellmode pushes boundaries. The album is Rosenstock’s most sonically diverse yet, incorporating horns, synthesizers, and even a trash can into the mix. The energy shifts seamlessly from the frenetic thrash of “Head” to the melancholic piano chords of “Healmode,” showcasing Rosenstock’s versatility as a songwriter and musician.