Tyler Posey "UNRAVEL" Review

The ever-eclectic Tyler Posey follows in the footsteps of the recent mainstream pop-punk revival with Unravel, his debut LP which evokes a nostalgic sense of comfort, while still bringing a slick and modern sense of style. The album pays homage to the early 2000’s radio rock scene, with influences such as Blink-182 and Linkin Park shining through, sometimes very heavily and other times interpolated very subtly. At a monstrous sixteen tracks, the album rarely lets up the energy and is the perfect contender for a windows-down listen.

Opening with slamming punk beats and screams, the first two tracks introduce the album with aggression and angst before diving into lead single “Lemon”, a slamming, bass-driven groove that opens into a droning, punk guitar lead reminiscent of the getaway scene in a heist flick. The album maintains this energy and intensity all the way through to the midpoint, where it slows to feature acoustic guitar and soft, vulnerable vocal performances, and deeply personal lyrical content. Posey reflects inward, speaking to his mental health struggles, anxieties, and self-image on tracks such as “Don’t Mind Me” and the sarcasm-injected “Piece of Shit”. On the surface, this record appears to be a fun, upbeat, sing-along record - but a closer inspection reveals layers of introspection and relatability that will be sure to grab listeners.

Much like the lyrics, the instrumentation and arrangements of Unravel are deceptively intricate. While much of the album does sit in the guitar-driven pop-punk realm, songs like “World Class Loser” and “Shit Parade” incorporate electronic drum beats and trap/hip-hop production that gives this project a polished feel. “Gravity” experiments with a full string section underneath an acoustic guitar that is prevalent on a handful of other tunes as well, and songs like “Runnin’” incorporate the high-pitched snare and reggae vibes of 90’s ska. Production and instrument choices feel intentionally placed and carefully thought out, serving each song rather than feeling like recycled, by-the-numbers templates. There is something to suit any listener’s personal musical palate.

Unravel proves itself to be a strong collection of versatile sounds and an impressive debut full-length. Wearing his influences on his sleeve proudly, Tyler Posey has paid homage to the rock radio of his youth, while pushing those sounds forward into modernity. Unravel is lighthearted and fun as it sets off, heartfelt and sincere when it intends, and thoroughly enjoyable throughout its entirety.

6/10