Just the other day (July 11) the post-hardcore-indie-funk-hip-hop-piano-punk duo known as twenty one pilots just released two new tracks that will appear on their upcoming album, Trench, which is set to be released this October. The first song, “Jumpsuit,” appears to continue some of the themes from their most recent album Blurryface about their insecurities, their love-hate relationship with the music industry, their fear of selling out, and their desire to be authentic. I find their explorations of those themes absolutely fascinating, and I even did a little reflection a few years back on the dynamic of online ‘Catfishing’ inspired by their work (you can check out part one here; and you can check out part two here). The video for “Jumpsuit” (below) is highly symbolic, and appears to be setting up some of the motifs for a concept album as well.
If the first song is more visually representative of what the concept album may entail, the second one, “Nico and the Niners” seems more laden with lyrical elements of that concept album, including hints at characters, etc.
Perhaps this is the first time you’ve come across this band before. Let me say that you really ought to introduce yourself to the band. They’re incredible. Logan’s analysis of Car Radio is where it all started for me. After watching the music video to “Car Radio” ten times in a row, I purchased their three major albums on iTunes. I still maintain that Vessel is their best, and is easily one of the best albums that I’ve listened to from the past decade. Give them a try if you haven’t yet. If you are a fan, what do you make of their new music? And what do you know about the details on their new album’s conceptual material?
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