Only Forever

Ah, the debut album from Alive Like Me, "Only Forever." It's like a breath of fresh air in a vacuum-sealed room filled with stale pop-punk. These Oregon boys bring a youthful exuberance to the scene that is both endearing and infectious. The opening track, "Searching for Endings," sets the tone for the album with its driving guitars and catchy hooks. Lead vocalist Jairus Kersey's raw, emotive vocals shine through, adding a layer of depth to the otherwise straightforward lyrics. Tracks like "Better Off" and "What Did You Expect" showcase the band's knack for crafting anthemic choruses that are sure to get stuck in your head for days. It's the kind of music that makes you want to jump around in your bedroom like a teenager again, regardless of your actual age. But don't be fooled by the infectious melodies and sing-along choruses, there's a surprising amount of emotional depth to be found in tracks like "Slip Away" and "Our Time Down Here." Alive Like Me may be young, but they know how to tap into the universal themes of love, loss, and longing that resonate with listeners of all ages. Overall, "Only Forever" is a promising debut from a band that shows a lot of potential. Alive Like Me may not reinvent the wheel, but they certainly know how to spin it in a new and exciting direction. Watch out for these boys, they're only just getting started.