THE FRONT ROW

The Mysterines’ second album, Afraid of Tomorrows, isn’t just a follow-up to their acclaimed debut, Reeling—it’s a complete evolution. Released on June 21, 2024, this record redefines the band’s sound, trading the raw immediacy of their first album for something more expansive, layered, and emotionally charged. Recorded over five weeks in Los Angeles with Grammy-winning producer John Congleton, Afraid of Tomorrows takes bold risks that pay off in spades.

Having cut their teeth on tours with Arctic Monkeys, The Hives, and Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, The Mysterines bring that live energy into the studio while delving deeper into their creative potential. The result is an album that’s equal parts fierce and fragile, proving the band’s ability to tackle complex themes with both muscle and nuance.

From the moment “The Last Dance” opens the album, it’s clear The Mysterines have entered a new era. The track begins with haunting instrumentation before exploding into a cinematic swirl of guitars, pounding drums, and Lia Metcalfe’s evocative vocals. As the song winds down, Metcalfe’s whispery outro adds an eerie, almost unsettling edge—a perfect introduction to an album that explores themes of paranoia, addiction, and vulnerability.

Lead single “Stray” encapsulates the album’s dark yet magnetic energy. With brooding guitar riffs and sleek vocals, it’s an instant standout, bristling with tension as Metcalfe reflects on life’s hard-earned lessons. The accompanying music video, where Metcalfe performs a choreographed dance routine, adds another layer of creativity to the band’s growing repertoire.

One of Afraid of Tomorrows’ most impressive feats is its ability to traverse the many sub-genres of rock while maintaining a cohesive identity. Tracks like “Sink Ya Teeth” deliver thunderous, thrashing energy reminiscent of grunge icons like PJ Harvey and Garbage, while “Junkyard Angel” leans into bluesy, Southern rock territory.

Meanwhile, songs like “Hawkmoon” demonstrate the band’s willingness to experiment. Beginning with a stripped-back acoustic feel, the track crescendos into a lush, full-bodied arrangement that feels both intimate and cinematic. This dynamic approach keeps the album fresh and unpredictable, ensuring there’s always something new to discover on repeat listens.

At the heart of the album is Lia Metcalfe, whose voice is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether she’s delivering quiet, contemplative verses or unleashing guttural roars, Metcalfe commands attention on every track. Her ability to convey emotion is particularly striking on “Another Another Another,” a track steeped in melancholia, and “Inside a Matchbox,” where her delivery shifts between tender and unrelenting.

Lyrically, Metcalfe continues to shine. Drawing inspiration from sources as varied as the documentary Meet Me in the Bathroom and Billie Holiday’s autobiography Lady Sings the Blues, her storytelling is vivid and poignant. On “The Last Dance,” she spins a surreal tale of longing and isolation, while “Afraid of Tomorrows” closes the album with an unflinching admission of fear and uncertainty.

While The Mysterines excel at delivering heavy-hitting rock anthems, the quieter moments on Afraid of Tomorrows are equally powerful. The title track, clocking in at just under three minutes, is a raw and stripped-down closer that leaves a lasting impression. Similarly, “So Long” pairs acoustic melodies with haunting lyrics, offering a respite from the album’s heavier cuts while retaining its emotional intensity.

These moments of introspection showcase a band unafraid to expose their vulnerabilities, adding depth and dimension to their sound.

Working with John Congleton was a masterstroke for The Mysterines. Known for his work with artists like St. Vincent and Sharon Van Etten, Congleton pushes the band into new sonic territory without sacrificing their identity. His production style enhances the rawness of the performances, ensuring that every guitar riff, drum hit, and vocal line feels immediate and impactful.

The album’s pacing also deserves praise. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, creating an immersive listening experience that takes you on a journey through the band’s evolving soundscape.

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The Front Row Verdict

With Afraid of Tomorrows, The Mysterines have proven they’re not just a band to watch—they’re a band to be reckoned with. This is an album that refuses to play it safe, diving headfirst into the shadows to deliver a collection of songs that are as haunting as they are exhilarating.

By combining their signature ferocity with newfound vulnerability and artistic ambition, The Mysterines have created a record that stands as a triumph of modern rock. If Reeling was their introduction, Afraid of Tomorrows is their mission statement—and it’s one that demands to be heard.

Stay tuned for more in our Albums of the Year 2024 series, only on The Front Row.