AWOLNATION – fronted by Aaron Bruno – has released their latest album, The Phantom Five today. This anticipated full-length project, which Bruno suggests could be the final chapter for AWOLNATION, consists of ten tracks that serve as a culmination of their musical journey.
The album is produced in partnership with a range of collaborators. It features previously released singles “Panoramic View,” “Jump Sit Stand March” featuring Emily Armstrong, and “I Am Happy” with Del The Funky Homosapien. Also, adding to the album's release is the brand new music video for the key single “Barbarian."
"Barbarian" stands out – as not just my favourite song on the record, but – not just musically but also visually, with its music video shot in the same iconic location as Chris Isaak’s "Wicked Game,” though with a playful twist on the concept. Bruno’s approach was to celebrate the song's themes while acknowledging the impossibility of recreating the magic of Isaak’s piece; metaphorically narrating Bruno’s transition from AWOLNATION to potentially new creative ventures, echoing the transformative experience of a man turning into a bug.
The Phantom Five feels like an anthology of various musical impulses Bruno has mastered over the years, wrapping them into a cohesive collection that traverses a spectrum of emotional and sonic art forms. The album touches on themes of complex times, exploring happiness, frustration, and the pursuit of authenticity too. Today’s release is a fantastic showcase of AWOLNATION at a possible final juncture in their career – including Aaron himself – offering fans a comprehensive look at their musical evolution and the personal growth of Aaron as an artist.
Even if AWOLNATION potentially closes this chapter, this album stands as a significant showcase of its impactful presence in the music industry.
