OH THE HUMANITY!’s 3rd Album ‘Ground To Dust’ Deeply Rooted In Punk Influences

OH THE HUMANITY!’s ‘Ground To Dust’ Deeply Rooted In Punk Influences

‘Ground to Dust’ is Oh the Humanity!’s third album, and the album where they pivot from a pop punk lean to a sound that is more deeply rooted in punk. Punk influences from a variety of impactful bands can be heard in the sounds of this record.

Speaking of sounds, the mixing on this record leaves a little to be desired. The instruments are not muddy, but the vocals are not as clear as they were on their previous self-titled. In a genre so rooted in not only rebellious sounds but rebellious lyrics, the lack of clarity around the vocals requires multiple listens before understanding the themes of some of the songs.

The record opens with a quick instrumental, but then moves into a fast-paced track called “Gutted”. “Gutted” sets the tone for the rest of the album – catchy riffs, anthemic vocals, and Rise Against-inspired drumming. It also features some unclean vocals towards the end, which leaves you wanting to relisten to the song. In my opinion, the unclean vocals were actually underutilized in this album, and there could be benefit to including more.

The album continues with “Upper Riffspiratory Infection” (featured on the Nyrdcast Podcast), which contains shades of Bad Religion. The last single, “Love Irresolute”, certainly leans back towards a pop punk sound. Track 7, “Blues”, is reminiscent of the Cheshire Cat and Dude Ranch era of blink-182.

For me, the standout track on this record is “Worth Nothing”. The song starts with an immensely infectious riff, and its chorus feels like an anthem. This tirade against capitalism feels perfectly in place in the middle of this punk album. 

Overall, this album is a cohesive piece of work that is evocative of great punk bands that have come before. If you’re feeling rebellious, if you’re feeling angry, if you’re feeling helpless – this album is for you.

‘Ground To Dust’ is out January 24th. Learn more about them and the album here.

Rating: 4/5 stars.

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Daniel Faison is a bassist, Dungeon Master, husky-owner, and chemical engineer who believes that art should enrich, teach, and stretch. You can find his other music reviews on Musicboard.