Embracing the indomitable spirit of metamorphosis, Code Orange, the heavy-hitting quartet from Pittsburgh, has uncloaked their fifth studio album, “The Above.” The 14-track musical voyage is an audacious step into an exciting new epoch of their career, showcasing an evolution of their sound whilst steadfastly retaining their raw, edgy character. As their first offering through Blue Grape Music, the band’s freshly forged alliance with the label, the album posits a landmark within their musical trajectory.
“The Above“, scheduled to grace the airwaves on September 29th, is an intricately curated album, testifying to the band’s fervor for uncharted sonic territories. Jami Morgan, the band’s vocal powerhouse, and Eric “Shade” Balderose, distinguished for his programming prowess and vocals, were at the helm of the production. The duo were joined by renowned engineer Steve Albini, whose illustrious career includes associations with iconic bands such as Nirvana and Pixies.
An intriguing facet of the album that has already piqued the interest of their loyal fanbase is the guest appearance by Billy Corgan, the unmistakable voice of diamond-certified alternative rock group, The Smashing Pumpkins. Corgan graces the album’s latest single, “Take Shape,” which has a striking music video co-directed by Max Moore and Jami Morgan.
“Take Shape” veers into an avenue distinctly rock & roll, a tonal detour that might surprise Code Orange’s audience. Yet, it is this very audacity to venture into unfamiliar terrains that has characterized the band’s journey so far. Emulating Corgan’s epochal songwriting style that graced the classic albums “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness” and “Siamese Dream”, “Take Shape” offers a sweeping rock tune, setting the stage for what to anticipate from the rest of the album.
“‘Take Shape’ is an industrial groove in which Eric “Shade” Balderose and Reba Meyers lay down a pummeling riff over Joe Golman’s distorted bass.”
The album also incorporates previously released tracks, “Grooming My Replacement” and “The Game,” which hint at the nuanced diversity that “The Above” encapsulates. From throwbacks to their hardcore roots to catchier, groove-laden offerings that promise to be crowd-pleasers, the album appears to be a melting pot of the band’s past, present, and future.
In keeping with their promise of bridging the gap between their creative process and the resulting art, Code Orange has been consistently updating their blog with behind-the-scenes footage and photos that offer glimpses into the making of “The Above“. This interactive initiative serves as an engaging narrative, further enhancing the intrigue that surrounds their upcoming release.
For ardent collectors and connoisseurs, an exclusive “transparent ochre” colored vinyl variant, limited to just 350 copies, is available for pre-order, a testament to the band’s understanding of their fans’ desire for unique memorabilia.
