THEORY OF A DEADMAN

THEORY OF A DEADMAN have been rocking it for decades, so they know that the best way to start off a collection of songs is with a bang. With that in mind, the band gets down to business early on their new EP, "Part 1: Funeral Songs". The band's first EP arrives with the kind of loud, unapologetic rock energy that longtime fans have come to expect, but there's also a real sense of fun running through these songs. That excitement is representative of THEORY OF A DEADMAN's style. "Part 1: Funeral Songs" sounds like a band continuing to dive into what they enjoy doing. However, another theme running through this EP is that many of the tracks sounds just as country as they do rock.

The opening track, "Barricade", makes that known right away. Voices saying "break down the barricade" build into a rush of guitars and drums, giving the EP a big and aggressive opening. The song centers on the frustration of a one-sided relationship and someone who simply refuses to let another person in.

Then comes "Funeral Song", which shifts into something faster and a little more playful. The organ introduction gives way to an urgent beat, and the song brings a punky edge that keeps the momentum moving. It's one of those tracks that feels built for turning up loud.

While all of the songs on this EP do rock, "Winnebago (Lay Low)" may be the real standout. The song brings back the band's familiar sense of humor while still sounding fresh and energetic. Its story about reaching the point where staying home sounds better than going out is instantly relatable. THEORY OF A DEADMAN have always known how to mix rock songs with personality, and "Winnebago (Lay Low)" feels like a perfect example of that. The chorus is especially memorable and has the kind of hook that sticks in your head.

"Monster Truck" keeps the EP moving with a riff-heavy approach and some satire aimed at the world around us. Then, "Deep End" changes the mood with a familiar THEORY OF A DEADMAN ballad. Finally, the EP closes with "Prenup", a rebellious song that brings the band's tongue-in-cheek side back to the forefront.

"Part 1: Funeral Songs" plays like a fun, free-flowing statement from THEORY OF A DEADMAN. From "Barricade" to the infectious "Winnebago (Lay Low)", these songs have humor, hooks and volume. Most importantly, the EP sounds like a group that still loves just being a rock band.