The alternative rock band As It Is, which consists of members Patty Walters (lead vocalist), Benjamin Biss (rhythm guitar), Patrick Foley (drums), and Alistair Testo (bass), makes their memorable return with their first single reimagined off their debut album, Never Happy, Ever After.
"Dial Tones X," featuring Lucas Woodland of Holding Absence, celebrates the 10th anniversary of the band's first single, which was released back in 2015. The single's fresh new take showcases the band's evolution in musical style over the years, from pop-punk jams to darker, edgier rhythms.
"Dial Tones X" starts out with familiar melodies from the original, but with added atmospheric guitar riffs, followed by steady drum patterns throughout the song. The vocals alternate, with Patty starting the song off with his familiar vibrant tone and switching to Lucas in the second verse, which created the perfect harmony to bring an unforgettable collaboration. The two harmonized so well, creating a memorable contrast of modern artistry.
The song dives into the theme of sentimental attachment and the struggle of truly feeling heard by someone close to you. The edgy take on their updated version explores the band's new sound, which they have gravitated toward since releasing popular albums The Great Depression and I Went to Hell and Back.
The song emphasizes feelings of distance while sending an influential message of vulnerability and emotional loneliness. Lyrics like "Cause the weight from all my guilt is all too much for me to carry" and "I'm getting more of what I've always wanted but becoming less of who I've ever been" explore the song's core message of longing and self-discovery regarding relationships with others and ourselves. You can also hear the emotion through Walter's tone while singing along with the support from Woodland.
The amount of excitement from fans of the band's new release and comeback after taking some time off the past year has As It Is feeling grateful and ready to continue making more music in 2025.
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