California emo outfit Movements make a triumphant return with RUCKUS!, a ten-track collection that perfectly embodies all the trademark properties of the band while simultaneously leaping forward into thrilling new territories. Produced by the band’s longtime collaborator Will Yip, whom the band openly and graciously refer to as its fifth member, this songwriting team proves once again why Movements is a powerhouse of the genre. The band leans back into its post-hardcore roots, with several tracks honing in on the aggression present in their earliest works, delivers classic sing-along emo anthems the band is renowned for, and also taps into a softer, more contemporary-feeling sonic space that has largely been left unexplored by the band prior to this album.

The album opens with the chaotic explosions of “You’re One of Us Now,” before smoothly sliding into “Killing Time,” a bass-driven number that evokes the sultry and haunting feelings the band previously toyed with on singles like 2022’s “Cherry Thrill.” Drummer Spencer York’s unmistakable groove and feel are at the forefront of these tracks, creating a unique yet subtle drive. Working in tandem with Austin Cressey’s melodic bass lines, the rhythm section creates an infectious foundation for the vocals and instrumentation to dance around. “Heaven Sent” and “A.M.P.” keep these floating, dreamy vibes present throughout the tracklist, while cuts like “Lead Pipe” and “I Hope You Choke” present aggressive, guitar riff-driven moments reminiscent of the band’s earliest work. With these songs making their presence known with fuzzed out riffs and aggressive vocals, the band’s full range of dynamics is shown, musical peaks and valleys weaved throughout the entirety of the album. The tracklist is expertly compiled, with some tracks playing seamlessly into one another and others deliberately providing a sudden and abrupt contrast to the one before it.

Lyrics have always been this band’s strongest point, their expertly crafted storytelling and ability to convey universal emotions with unique articulation is what makes the band a mainstay in alternative music, and those talents are on full display here. One particular standout is “Tightrope” - a confessional of self-doubt, containing lyrics such as, “don’t remind me I could never be enough” and a chorus that proclaims, “I don’t know if I could ever measure up.” Vocalist Patrick Miranda’s prowess is on full display with these tracks, delivering performances that are subdued and understated when necessary, powerful and erupting in moments of anguish or angst, and genuine in their feeling. The combination of earnest lyrics and stirring performances is certain to resonate strongly with listeners, creating staples in their catalog for years to come.

With RUCKUS!, Movements prove the three-year gap between full-length records was well worth the wait. The time and care with which they prepare new music for a listener’s ear is apparent here, with a record that is cohesive, dynamic, familiar and fresh all at once. An exhilarating listen that demands the ear from front to back, RUCKUS! is a truly special body of work.

Rating: 7.5/10