Breaking Tag – Sticks & Stones CD

Released in April 2022, Sticks & Stones is an exceptional second extended play by French punk rock group Breaking Tag. Consisting of four outstanding songs, this EP showcases the band’s ability to skillfully combine elements of melodic punk rock, melodic hardcore, orgcore, and indie punk. Each track on Sticks & Stones is energetic, melodic, dynamic, and accompanied by powerful, anthemic singalongs, resulting in an enjoyable listening experience. Breaking Tag expertly merges the essential elements of late 90s and early 00s melodic punk rock, but also paying homage to the genre’s roots. However, what sets them apart is their ability to incorporate modern sonic maneuvers, giving their music a fresh and contemporary feel. The production quality of Sticks & Stones is top-notch, allowing each component to shine through the mix.

The EP opens with the captivating track Strings And Bonds, showcasing Breaking Tag’s prowess in crafting heavy chord progressions, catchy riffs, and infectious melodies. The harmonies and themes incorporated in this song add depth and complexity to the overall sound. Moreover, the lead guitar work is exceptional, showcasing the band’s technical ability and musical versatility. Following Strings And Bonds is the energetic and powerful Virtual Lie. This song showcases Breaking Tag’s ability to create well-structured tracks decorated with warm-sounding basslines that provide a solid foundation for ear-appealing riffs and chord progressions. The rhythmic sequences in this track are dynamic and energetic, featuring well-accentuated beats, breaks, and other percussive acrobatics. The vocals play a significant role in emphasizing the instrumentations, drawing the listener’s attention to the intricacies of the song.

The third song on the EP, “19,” further solidifies Breaking Tag’s command of their craft. The anthemic singalongs in this track add catchiness and power, making it an instant punk rock hit. It’s hard not to get carried by the energy of this song, thanks to the band’s energetic instrumentation and expertly executed harmonies. Closing out Sticks & Stones is the poignant and emotionally charged Bombs Raining Down. This track serves as the perfect closure of the EP, leaving a lasting impact on the listener. Breaking Tag’s ability to convey raw emotions through their musicality is evident in this track, making it a standout moment on the entire material.

Overall, Sticks & Stones is a melodic punk rock masterpiece. The group’s ability to combine various genres seamlessly creates a unique and captivating sound. From the heavy chord progressions and catchy riffs to the well-structured basslines and energetic rhythms, every element of the music is carefully crafted and placed within the mix. The production quality of this EP is also exceptional, allowing each instrument and vocal to shine through in a way that maximizes the impact of the music. Breaking Tag’s melodies and harmonies are infectious, and the anthemic singalongs add an extra layer of catchiness and power to the songs. Whether you are a fan of melodic punk rock or simply appreciate well-crafted and dynamic music, Sticks & Stones is an EP that should not be missed. Breaking Tag’s passion and talent shine through, leaving a lasting impression on the listener. This material exemplifies their potential and ability to create music that resonates with a wide range of listeners. The CD is available directly from the band, so head to their Bandcamp or social media pages for more information about ordering.