Marlon Pitter
Connector Editor

One month ago, if you asked me who would record the first album that I would purchase in 2014, “Bayside” certainly would not have been my answer. However, after recently discovering the new Bayside album, it is clear that this Queens, N.Y. four-piece band is coming into their own with their distinct musical identity.

To follow their 2011 album, “Killing Time,” Bayside released “Cult” through Hopeless Records on Feb. 18. The 35-minute, 11-track album includes the singles “Pigsty” and “Time Has Come.”
“Cult” provides a smooth listen, staying fairly consistent throughout. The first track, “Big Cheese,” jumpstarts the album with an electrifying mix of melodic hardcore and punk rock styles.

Like many of the songs on this record and “Killing Time,” “Big Cheese” and “Pigsty” display Jack O’Shea’s astounding lead guitar skills with entrancing solos, rivaling his own work in previously released songs, “It’s Not a Bad Little War” and “The Wrong Way” from “Killing Time.”

Lyrically, this album is just as intricate and meaningful as any Bayside have written in their 14 years as a band.

“Don’t throw away our lives on this; last month was hard, I do admit; the hardest road pays off the most,” are some of the lyrics Anthony Raneri sings about overcoming the struggles that come with being in relationship in the song, “Transitive Property.” The lyrics are very relatable in that they are very clear, distinct and meaningful, but still remain personal at the same time as they relate to Raneri’s experiences.

In the song, “You’re No Match,” Raneri sings, “You are the monster I was I scared you’d be; and now you’re blaming it on your surroundings; and your horns came out so gradually; but honey you’re no match for me.”

“And your horns came out so gradually” could be in reference to the fact that it may have taken a while for Raneri to realize that this person was not trustworthy.

Other noteworthy songs include “Something’s Wrong” and “The Whitest Lie.” The latter track features a hardcore style and more of O’Shea’s impressive guitar playing, making it a great conclusion to the album.

An absolutely incredible album, “Cult” scores a perfect 10. This album should lead into another year of good punk rock.

“Cult” is available now for purchase on iTunes. Bayside will be on tour with Four Year Strong this spring, performing at The Palladium in Worcester on April 5.