The English rock band you may have overlooked:
LAUREN JOHNS ART & LIFE EDITOR
Young Guns, a band, went out with a bang after producing chart-topping hits and spellbinding melodies. The band deserves more acclaim for their past successes. Their name stems from the ‘gang mentality vibe’ prevalent in 80s movies. Their sound can be compared to bands like: Linkin Park, Asking Alexandria, Seether, You Me At Six, Chevelle, Thrice. Founded in 2009, the band released the EP “Mirrors” and supported Bon Jovi and Guns ‘N’ Roses. They soon met Dan Weller and Justin Hill, their future producers. After only selling 500 copies of their EP, Young Guns was ready for the big leagues. “All Our Kings Are Dead,” came out in 2010. Styled as old school rock mixed with grunge, Lead Singer Gustav carried the album with his grit ringing out over substantial guitar riffs. The album intended to fill an arena. Check out ‘After the War’ and ‘Stitches’. Young Guns’ peaked in 2012 with “Bones,” their most renowned album. The album provoked thought and was ripe with heartfelt lyrics. Gustav projected raw emotion in his voice, singing notes with purpose for the listeners. “Bones” scrutinized human nature and how people strive for unattainable perfection rather than cherishing the lives they have. “Bones,” the lead single, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Active Rock Chart the following year. Surprisingly, their most successful song was written on a whim. They were holed up in Dan Weller’s studio throwing parties instead of working. Realizing the importance of productivity, they messed around with “We Will Rock You” beats and experimental guitar riffs. Gustav improvised a chant-like and celebratory chorus that rang out. The fact that they could procrastinate with such skill, shows a substantial amount of chemistry and passion. The best line of the song is, “We’re all architects of our own private hell. No one can hurt us like we hurt ourselves.” Each track changed the game. Some are upbeat and motivational; others are somber and heart wrenching like “You Are Not (Lonely).” It impacted listeners with lyrics like, “You are not a diamond. You are not a shining star. Doesn’t mean that you’re not perfect exactly as you are.” The simple yet alluring chord progression elevates the song. A few other honorable mentions: “I Was Born, I Have Lived, I Will Surely Die,” , “Headlights,” “Towers (On My Way,)” and “Everything Ends.” ‘Young Guns’ last two albums, 2015’s “Ones And Zeros” and 2016’s “Echoes,” display a more modern sound, complete with electronic elements. However, the band never strays from their rock roots. Honorable mentions from both: “I Want Out,” “Rising Up,” (2015) “The Awakening,” and “Buried.” (2016) Experience ‘Young Guns’ music.
