Blank When Zero’s Stagna is an exceptional EP consisting of four powerful tracks that carry some of the finest properties borrowed from melodic hardcore, melodic punk rock, skate punk, etc. This 7″ EP, marking their first release in seven years, is a nine-minute swell of energetic, dynamic, and powerful sound that showcases their tremendous songwriting and composing abilities. After years of silence and the uncertainties of a pandemic, Stagna is as much an emotional catharsis as a sheer example of their resilience and passion for playing punk rock music. Every element on this record, from vocals and impressive guitar works to groovy basslines and powerful drums, joins together to create a succinct yet impactful listening experience. The vocalist balances melody with aggression in a controlled and deeply passionate way. The vocal delivery resonates with a sincerity and rawness that makes each line feel like a personal confession, capturing the sense of frustration and longing that pervades the album. There’s a unique grit in the vocals, a tone that feels like it’s bursting from a place of pent-up energy, making the nine minutes feel like an urgent message from the heart. The lyrics, although simple, speak volumes. They explore themes of stagnation, existential questioning, and the desire for catharsis. Delivered with conviction and depth, the vocals add an emotive layer, making it feel like a conversation and emotional outpouring.
The guitar work is exceptional, blending fast-paced guitar works with the melodic hardcore aggression. The chord progressions move fluidly, creating a dynamic atmosphere that shifts from aggressive to contemplative within moments. Each riff feels carefully crafted, balancing raw power and the intricate melodies that make this EP such a pleasant listening experience. The tone is sharp yet resonant, providing a powerful backdrop for the vocals to shine upon while capturing the nuances of the thematic core. There’s a sense of urgency in the guitar work like each note is trying to break free from the confines of hesitation and ambivalence. Blank When Zero channels influences from the nineties skate punk while maintaining a unique sound that feels thoroughly modern. The basslines are exquisite, providing the EP with a rich, grounding layer that complements the fast-paced guitar riffs. The bass doesn’t merely shadow the guitars, instead, it carves its path, adding depth and weight to each track. The basslines are melodic yet assertive, providing a pulse that makes the music feel fuller and more cohesive. There’s a warmth to the bass tone that contrasts beautifully with the sharper edges of the guitar, creating a sense of balance that gives this material a unique sound. In moments where the bass shines through, it reinforces the sense of movement and drive that defines the EP, making the listener feel like they’re being pulled along on an introspective and energizing sonic journey.
The drumming is one of the album’s most impressive features. This performance is precise and powerful, injecting each track with a relentless energy that pushes the music to new heights. The beats are fast and furious, yet they also display a versatility that allows for dynamic shifts in rhythm and intensity. The drumming maintains a tightness that keeps the EP feeling cohesive, creating a foundation that allows the other instruments to shine without ever feeling loose or chaotic. Each fill and crash is perfectly timed, adding to the EP’s sense of urgency while enhancing its emotional impact. The drums don’t merely keep time, they propel the music forward, reinforcing the album’s themes of breaking free from stagnation and moving toward something more meaningful. The production quality is worth noting, as it captures the raw energy of the band’s sound while preserving enough clarity to showcase each instrument’s individual contributions. The mix is balanced, allowing the vocals to sit comfortably atop the instrumentals while giving each layer its own space to breathe. The guitars are loud and punchy, the bass is warm and resonant, and the drums are crisp and powerful. There’s a sense of immediacy in the production that makes the EP feel like a live performance, capturing the intensity of the band’s sound without sacrificing quality. This balance between rawness and clarity enhances the listening experience, making each track feel like a direct message from the band.
Stagna is more than just a return for Blank When Zero, it’s a statement of resilience and a sheer example of their growth as musicians. The EP explores uncertainty, frustration, and the struggle to break free from stagnation, all while delivering the fast-paced, melodic energy that defines skatepunk and hardcore music. In just four tracks, the band manages to capture a wide range of emotions, creating a deeply personal yet universally relatable EP. It’s a short, intense burst of sound, but within those nine minutes, Blank When Zero says everything they need to say, leaving the listener with a sense of catharsis and a desire for more. Stagna is a powerful reminder that, even in moments of stillness and uncertainty, there’s always room for movement and change. Head to Keep It A Secret Records for more information about ordering.
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