Paradise Fears have begun a new chapter in their career as a band with the release of their new mini-album, Battle Scars. Two years ago, Paradise Fears was only beginning to gain a small following. One year ago, the band had just finished their first ever headlining tour. Fast forward to this week, and they have released Battle Scars, as they entered into a new era as a band. On the night of its release, Battle Scars charted at #2 on the Alternative iTunes charts, as well as breaking the top 20 overall on the iTunes charts. Let me remind you that Paradise Fears does not have a label or manager. Impressive, isn’t it? Coming from the small town of Vermillion, South Dakota, Paradise Fears sure knows what they want, and they’re not letting anything or anyone get in their way.
Battle Scars begins with a prelude stating, “This is a call to arms for the poets that are inside of us. This is shedding our skin and breaking the chains that are binding us.” This track sums up the album. You’re in for an emotional ride.
The next three tracks, “Battle Scars,” “What Are You Waiting For?” and “Warrior,” all flow together effortlessly. “Battle Scars” is an anthem for anyone who has ever struggled. As the song states, “we’ve all got battle scars.” It shines hope on those having doubts through lyrics such as, “hope is so much stronger than fear…you can light up the dark.” The bridge breaks into a speech, similar to the speech from “Sanctuary,” but this time around the speech is about fighting for what you want and marching on. “What Are You Waiting For?” rolls in to give the needed push to fight. With lyrics such as “This world is only there for those willing to take it,” and “You love it? Embrace it. You want it? Then chase it,” you will be ready to take your chances and embrace your fears. In the end, you come out as a “Warrior,” which is the next track on the album. “Warrior” was enhanced and re-released for “Battle Scars.” The ending connects these three songs together with the line “They don’t run from this like they did when they were kids because to not have some battle scars is to never have lived.”
There has to be at least one love song on an album, right? “Lullaby” fills the role of a long distance relationship and not wanting to say goodbye, but knowing that the special someone is on the other side. Often with love comes a break up. “Fought For Me” and “Used” reveal the fallout of relationships.
The album closes with a reprise of “Battle Scars” You will be picked back up in a blink after hearing the uplifting spirits in the melody and backing vocals by Brian Dales of The Summer Set. You’ll keep marching on.
Paradise Fears has come a long way since they embarked on their musical journey. I am constantly impressed by their achievements. They continue to mature with each music release. This album is proof of their growth and the start of a new beginning. I highly recommend that you pick up a copy.
“Never underestimate the power of ten thousand hearts beating in time.” – “Intro (Prelude)”
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