Death lens triumphantly returns on their fourth outing with ‘cold world’ with a change in musical style and with that a fresh new sound.

by Felix Bartlett | May 7, 2024

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 LA based Death Lens – the five “Brown boys from La Puente” – have released their sophomore album ‘Cold World’ which is out now digitally and physically via Epitaph Records. Enlisting the help of their first producer, NYC based Brett Romnes (Hot Mulligan, Mom Jeans), the new record documents an elevation of their sound transmuted into matured and brawny post-hardcore with lyrics that show a dedication to social justice and their community.

DEATH LENS’ latest album embarks on a sonic evolution with their fourth album, “Cold World.” Initially known for their instrumental prowess, the five-piece has evolved into a definitive punk/indie/Britrock ensemble over the years. However, following their collaboration with MILITARIE GUN and TOGETHER PANGEA during the tour for their third album, “No Luck,” the band has reinvented their sound and with that diverged from their earlier musical identity.

The 11 track album gives Death Lens the opportunity to display on full show their musical talent, venturing beyond their previous boundaries. “Fucked Up” kicks off the album with its fast-paced punk energy, juxtaposing loud verses with more subdued, sing-along choruses. Following this tracks like “Disturb The Peace” and “Turnout” maintain this momentum, though there’s a risk of the album blurring into a homogeneous punk frenzy. Yet, DEATH LENS deftly navigates this potential pitfall by introducing elements of grunge in “Limousine,” providing a refreshing change of pace without losing cohesion.

For the first time in their career, the band enlisted producer Brett Romnes, known for his work with Hot Mulligan and Mom Jeans. Romnes’s influence is evident, particularly on tracks like “Vacant,” where his production elevates the band’s sound to new heights.

Just when you thought this album couldn’t be filled with any more surprises the acoustic finale, “Lo Que Sera,” catches you off guard and offers a serene break from the album’s frenetic pace. Despite this genre-hopping, “Cold World” manages to prove to be a remarkably uncluttered album with each track fitting in and providing a hectic but flowing experience.

In essence, “Cold World” is a celebration (and a triumphant one at that) of exploration into the band’s talent. Death Lens pushes their boundaries without succumbing to the all too common trope of gimmickry. The album has proved to be a testament to Cold World’s artistic growth, delivering a slick, engaging album that feels like a natural progression for the band.

Verdict: 💀💀💀💀

Listen to the new album here:

Catch the band on the following dates:

May 19 – Utrecht, Netherlands – Db’s

May 21 – Buxelles, Belgium – Le Botanique

May 22 – Cologne, Germany – Sonic Ballroom

May 23 – Gent, Belgium – Trefpunt

May 24 – Den Haag, Netherlands – Sniester 2024

May 25 – Burghausen, Germany – Concrete Jungle Fest

May 26 – Aarau, Switzerland – KIFF

May 28 – Neunkirchen, Germany – Stummsche Reithalle

May 29 – Lucerne, Switzerland – Sedel Club

May 30 – Lyon, France – Trokson

May 31 – Paris, France – Block Party 2024

June 1 – Hamburg, Germany – Booze Cruise 2024

June 2 – Hannover, Germany – Bei Chez Heinz

June 20 – Piacenza, Italy – Spazio

June 27 – Ysselsteyn, Netherlands – Jera On Air

June 29 – Glasgow, UK – The Hug and Pint

June 30 – Newcastle, UK – Little Buildings

July 1 – Birmingham, UK – Dead Wax Digbeth

July 2 – Liverpool, UK – EBGBS

July 3 – London, UK – New Cross Inn

July 4 – Worcester, UK – Drummonds

July 5 – Stoke, UK – The Underground

July 7 – Lille, Belgium – Sjock Festival

July 9 – Norwich, UK – Voodoo Daddy’s

July 11 – Southampton, UK – Joiners

July 12 – Cheltenham, UK – 2000 Trees 2024