Keep Planting Flowers

4.50

PICKMETER

4.75

HMB

4.25

CRITICS

band:

Stick To Your Guns

release date: Jan 10, 2025

label: SharpTone Records

type: Full-length

HMB´S REVIEW

Stick To Your Guns has delivered something truly special with Keep Planting Flowers. This is not just a collection of songs; it’s an experience that touches the soul and makes you feel something far greater than just the weight of guitars and screams. From the very first sound of soil being turned in 'We All Die Anyway', you know you’re about to embark on a journey that delves into resilience, pain, and, above all, the ability to find beauty even in the toughest situations.

One thing that stands out in this work is the balance. The band manages to be both brutal and melodic, delivering an intensity that is not just sonic but deeply emotional. 'Severed Forever' exemplifies this perfectly. The crushing riffs and gut-punching screams hit hard, but the melodic moments in the chorus pull you back, revealing the humanity beneath all the aggression. 'Spineless' is another highlight, seamlessly shifting between rapid tempos and introspective passages, creating an emotional rollercoaster that grips you to the very end.

Another undeniable aspect is the attention to detail. Natural sounds are woven throughout the album, almost as if to remind us that there is beauty even amidst the storm. This is complemented by Jesse Barnett’s lyrics, which speak directly to our inner struggles and the importance of keeping hope alive, even when it feels impossible.

The collaborations are another high point. Contributions from Scott Vogel Terror and Connie Sgarbossa SeeYouSpaceCowboy not only add weight to the tracks they feature on but also reflect how much Stick To Your Guns values the hardcore community. It’s inspiring to see a veteran band bridge generations of fans and artists, creating something so cohesive and relevant.

What struck me most is how the entire album feels like an honest conversation—almost as if the band is speaking directly to you. It’s a powerful reminder that, even in the darkest moments, we can always plant something that will bloom in the future. Keep Planting Flowers is more than just an album; it’s a call to action, a comforting embrace in difficult times, and a celebration of human strength.

Review by Troadie - HMB´s Staff