Review: Sorry X - EXES
Artist: Sorry X
Album: EXES
Label: SBG Records
Heartbreak can often be a catalyst for some of the most poignant, powerful music in existence. For alternative metal artist, Sorry X, this couldn't be more true. These experiences can help shape a person for both the better and worst, often forcing a self-reflective period that ultimately leads to a complete change in image, aesthetic and even personality. Finding one's creative identity, during moments of intense, personal pain, can be difficult but that's just what she has done. Sorry X, signed to SBG Records is finally prepared to release a deep, introspective look into who she is as a person and as an artist. She's ready to cement her place in the metal scene and it all begins with her debut album, EXES.
The album begins with a moment of reflecting on the past, the pain and the coping mechanisms that were used to overcome the hurt. "Can You Hear Me?" opens with an electronic melody that's followed by Alexa belting out the title of the song. The track loses its intensity musically and picks it up lyrically, as there is a soft melody underlying her vocals. The chorus kicks in and immediately, the listener can't help but headbang. Going into the end of the second verse, we begin to hear the first taste of her screamed vocals, which will become important throughout the rest of the album.
We get to get a feel for how intense (and interactive) her live shows will be, as there is a clear intent for the audience to clap along to the beginning of the next track, "Pieces of My Heart." The vocal passages are a lot faster in the verses and you can feel a classic nu-metal vibe in the instrumental on this one. Undeniably, the chorus on this one is one of my favorites and is just so catchy. This track is about wasting time on someone who you thought was the one, only to find out that you've been used, abused and strung along. You spend every waking moment trying to find ways to replace the "high" you felt with them, only to realize that it's not the same. Ultimately, it becomes an empowerment anthem, as she sings about finding herself and realizing that they will never find another like her.
"The Wrong One," which features CJ Pierce and Ryan McCombs of Drowning Pool, is the point in the album where she begins to bounce back and truly realize her worth. It's about realizing that the love you thought you had, was nothing but a game to the other person and how you've had the upper hand the entire time. This track truly has a Drowning Pool, alt-metal flavor to it and CJ Pierce's playing, from the getgo, is instantly identifiable, complete with a signature solo moving into the bridge. Alexa spits venom through two choruses and then McCombs comes in and decimates the bridge. This track is a reminder: If you play with fire, you better get ready to get scorched.
"Bullet" is much more of an emotional, ballad-like track but still has the ferocity we've already come to know and love from her. This one showcases her range and intensity as a vocalist, unlike any before. There's a soaring vocal harmony through the final chorus that is one of my favorite parts of the entire album. This track is about seeing what an abuser has become, after you finally find the strength to leave. It's a reflection of who you were, who you've become and who you plan to be as a result of extreme disrespect and abuse. It's a reminder to set boundaries, never forget your worth and that it's never too late to get away.
Musically, the main riff for "Phantom Pain" is one of the most memorable on the album. It's gritty, heavy and it stands out from the rest of the album, truly showing what the guitarist is capable of. I'm certain that, if she pulls this one out for her live shows, it's going to quickly become a crowd favorite. Not only is it breakdown-heavy, but it also has a killer chorus and just grooves from start to end.
The album ends on an emotional, and relatable, note with "Afterthought (Rot)." This is a song about the blame that comes with losing a relationship you've held onto for so long. It's about hating the person you'd become, realizing what the person had done to you and how you sit and place blame on yourself for never being enough. The truth is, though, you were always enough and the person never cared the way they claimed to. This track feels like it could be thrown into the end credits of a movie. It's soft and melodic but kicks into the second chorus and explodes just the way you feel it build up to do.
Overall, EXES, is a strong body of work from a person who has clearly been through hell and back. It stands as a testament that beauty can be found through tragedy, especially when it comes to music. Before being sent this album, I had no idea what to expect, as I'd only heard her cover of "Bring Me to Life" a couple of years ago, but I left in tears and as a fan. Do yourself a favor and check out EXES, out July 24th, via SBG Records. She's on tour with Of Virtue and Savage Hands from July 16th to August 4th. Check out the flyer for the dates below and get your tickets!
