Badflower Throws All The Punches in Their Debut Album “Ok I’m Sick”
Badflower is a rock band from L.A. and have finally released their debut album “OK IM SICK” on Friday February 22nd. Before their debut, they released a trilogy of EPs. They touch hard hitting themes that deal with mental health, drug addiction, toxic relationships, growing old, and even a message to trump and our political climate. Their debut album is an emotional roller coaster of hard hitting themes with the power of rock and emo and other influences behind it.
“OKAY IM SICK” opens with X ANA X, a wild opening in the best way imaginable. “I’m sick, not the kind of sick that sends you to the doctor/I’m kind of alright but sicker than I can cope with” gives us an indication of the tone of the record as well as the story it will tell. Lead singer Josh Katz has opened up in the past about performance anxiety and dealing with the pressure to please the audience with a charismatic performance. Badflower is an expert at story telling with every track, which makes you intrigued each listen.
Tracks that I thoroughly enjoyed:
Their single “Ghost” has picked up a large amount of attention from fans and outlets alike. This song is sung from the perspective of someone failing to take their life and is dwelling upon it. It is a heavy subject matter but it consists of extreme raw emotion.
“Heroin” another single on the album is subtle at first but packs a punch in sound and the subject matter of a toxic relationship.
“24″ deals with growing older and how you might not be fulfilled with life and is one of the more likeable slow songs.
“Die” is the boldest track on the album and serves as a rockin' open letter to the orange President himself. Its manic and out there. I think “die” is a little extreme, but still conveys a powerful message.
Songs I didn't enjoy:
“Daddy” was a slower track with a message of an abusive relationship with a father, and she eventually kills him, but it didn't strike a chord with me as “Heroin” or “24″, the more notable songs on the album.
“Murder Games” is another track that starts slow and then packs a hard punch. This song criticizes the meat and dairy industry. I’m totally okay with a band writing about certain political topics, but it might not be for everyone.
They were one of the bands featured on the lineup of Rock Allegiance, and did not disappoint when on stage. I was familiar with their song “Animal” from one of their previous EPs, but I am so excited for what there is to come for Badflower. The songs are organic and original, and exactly what we need in the rock industry.
Concert Photos and Article by: Shannon Keene
Check out “Heroin” below. What are your thoughts? Was this an anticipated album you were expecting?
