There’s no gentle easing into the second studio album from Sydney pop punk trio, Yours Truly. TOXIC bursts forth from the speakers, delivering a swift smack in the ears with opener “Back 2 U”, and then it’s full speed ahead for the rest of the album. Strap yourselves in, kids.
Given this is a new line-up, with two of the four original members departing the band in early 2023, Yours Truly boast an incredibly cohesive sound, with TOXIC the sort of offering I’d expect from a unit that’s been together for an age. There’s an impressive maturity and polish across the board, and it’s just as tight and balanced as you could wish for.
I’m sure the comparison to Paramore has been made in the past, and there’s also hints of Evanescence’s Amy Lee at times, but Mikaila Delgado undeniably has the vocal chops to lead, and has her own distinctive style and sound. There’s no mistaking the power, and happily her voice never loses any clarity or feels muddy. Not an easy feat, I expect. The vocals really shine in “Love Feels Like”, undulating alongside a very tidy drum pattern which is both restrained and energising.
This is an album which would be equally at home being played with the windows down on a road trip, or lying around with quality headphones, soaking up the musicality and taking in the lyrics. The more I listen to it, the more I want to hear. Clearly I’ve been under some kind of musical rock because this is the first time I’ve heard their work – once my shame abates I’ll be actively seeking out a live show.
It is usually relatively easy for me to settle quickly on a favourite track or two when listening to new albums, but when it comes to Toxic, I just can’t seem to pin a favourite down. As soon as I find what I think I like best, I’m shunted sideways and drawn into a different track. Personally, I’m entirely satisfied with this outcome – what a great problem to have!
It’s not hard to see why Yours Truly are hitting major stages around the world, supporting huge names and making their own. With appearances at the iconic Reading and Leeds Festivals later this month, a support slot for Thirty Seconds to Mars in September, AND this stellar new album to showcase, there’s no doubt that 2024 will cement Yours Truly as crowd favourites.
TOXIC is released this Friday, 16 August. Get into it, it’s a banger!
FOUR AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Yours Truly open for Thirty Seconds to Mars on their Aussie tour later this year. Check out their Insta for more.
