For Knocked Loose, this album represents more than just another entry in their discography; it’s a statement of their continued relevance and a validation of their status as frontrunners in the hardcore genre.

by Felix Bartlett | May 9, 2024

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Knocked Loose has carved out a distinctive niche in the music scene, serving as a lightning rod for debates among fans and critics alike. Their presence in online forums and social media platforms often sparks heated discussions, with fans and opponents taking sides on the band’s aggressive style. This polarising nature has only amplified with the band’s ascension to the summit of the hardcore genre.

The anticipation surrounding Knocked Loose’s third full-length LP, You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To, has been met with heightened positivity with expectations running high for the Kentucky quintet. As they gear up for massive tours and high-profile festival appearances, the scrutiny on their latest release has never been more intense.

Speaking on the album process guitarist Hale stated “We worked so hard on it and doubted it so much that I think we ended up with the perfect record. And we didn’t know it until it was done. I think that the doubt and the struggle is what made it so special.”

With that being said it’s clear that for Knocked Loose, this album represents more than just another entry in their discography; it’s a statement of their continued relevance and a validation of their status as frontrunners in the hardcore genre.

Diving into the album you’re greeted with a sound all too familiar now; an onslaught of aggressive riffs and gut-wrenching vocals that have become synonymous with Knocked Loose. Tracks like “Thirst” waste no time in delivering the band’s trademark ferocity, setting the tone for what’s to come. While some may argue that the band has stuck to their tried-and-true formula, I find a closer inspection reveals the greater depth and understanding that the band have been able to explore and evolve over their career, adding intricacy and depth to the track.

One of the album’s standout moments arrives in their track “Suffocate,” a collab with Poppy that was recently released to audiences and shares the band exploring some brand new territories. Here, a strike of delicate balance between heaviness and melody is explored, creating a track that is as infectious as it is intense. Despite initial responses about Bryan Garris’ vocal delivery, the collaboration adds an unexpected dimension to the album, showcasing a willingness to experiment while staying true to their roots.

As the album unfolds, it becomes evident that each track is part of a larger narrative, connected by a common thread of tension and urgency. From the bone-crushing intensity of “Blinding Faith” to the haunting atmosphere of “Sit & Mourn,” every song contributes to a cohesive experience that is as immersive as it is exhilarating. Clocking in at just 10 tracks, the album manages to pack a punch without overstaying its welcome, leaving listeners craving more.

Of course, no album is without its flaws, and You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To is no exception. While tracks like “Slaughterhouse 2” featuring Chris Motionless offer glimpses of brilliance, they ultimately fall short of reaching the same heights as their predecessors. However, this minor misstep does little to detract from the overall strength of the album, which is sure to delight existing fans and win over newcomers alike.

In conclusion, You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To is a testament to Knocked Loose’s unwavering dedication to their craft. With this release, they have not only solidified their position as one of hardcore’s most formidable acts but also demonstrates a willingness to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues. Whether you love them or hate them, there’s no denying the impact that Knocked Loose has had on the hardcore scene, and You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To serves as a worthy addition to their already impressive body of work.

Verdict: 💀💀💀💀💀

Out May 10th via Pure Noise Records

YOU WON’T GO BEFORE YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO IS OUT NOW!

Listen to new album:

Knocked Loose Live Dates: Tickets Here

Apr 29 – Jun 9 w/ Show Me The Body, Loathe and Speed
Apr 27: Las Vegas, NV – Sick New World
Apr 29: Detroit, MI – Russell Industrial Center
May 01: Nashville, TN – Marathon Music Works (SOLD OUT)
May 03: Lawrence, KS – Granada
May 04: Oklahoma City, OK – The Criterion
May 05: Dallas, TX – The Factory in Deep Ellum
May 06: Austin, TX – Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater (SOLD OUT)
May 07: Houston, TX – White Oak Music Hall (SOLD OUT)
May 10: Phoenix, AZ – The Marquee
May 11: Los Angeles, CA – The Shrine (SOLD OUT)
May 12: San Francisco, CA – The Warfield
May 14: Seattle, WA – Showbox Sodo (SOLD OUT)
May 15: Portland, OR – Roseland Theater (SOLD OUT)
May 17: Boise, ID – Knitting Factory (SOLD OUT)
May 18: Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex
May 19: Denver, CO – Mission Ballroom
May 21: St. Louis, MO – The Pageant
May 22: Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore (SOLD OUT)
May 23: Chicago, IL – Salt Shed (SOLD OUT)
May 24: Newport, KY – Megacorp Pavilion
May 25: Cleveland, OH – Agora Theater (SOLD OUT)
May 28: Pittsburgh, PA – Stage Age
May 29: Silver Spring, MD – The FIllmore (SOLD OUT)
May 30: Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Steel (SOLD OUT)
May 31: New York, NY – Terminal 5 (SOLD OUT)
Jun 01: Boston, MA – Roadrunner (SOLD OUT)
Jun 03: Philadelphia, PA – Franklin Music Hall
Jun 04: Montreal, QC – Olympia
Jun 05: Toronto, ON – History (SOLD OUT)
Jun 07: Raleigh, NC – The Ritz (SOLD OUT)
Jun 08: Atlanta, GA – The Eastern (SOLD OUT)
Jun 09: St. Petersburg, FL – Jannus Live (SOLD OUT)