To kickstart their upcoming reissue album CONCRETE FOREVER, Bad Omens and Poppy join forces to release the band’s new single ‘V.A.N’ that, through its lyrics, visuals and industrial sound, tells the story of an AI gone rogue. She warns the listener of their inevitable doomed existence, “I am in your algorithm learning all your mannerisms / I am already level with God / Initiated operation of your own extermination / now it’s too late for you to stop.”
Throughout Poppy’s career she has embodied an ambiguous humanoid persona, perfectly fitting for the role that takes over the lead vocalist’s place in this release.
V.A.N is the acronym for the sinister incessant line “violence against nature”, which, upon first listen to the chorus, is slightly jarring, but in turn, effective. The repetitiveness of the line in Poppy’s unwavering, monotonous tone is mechanical and robotic. It elevates the heavy instrumentals to something more ethereal, and in the midst of this she implements metalcore screams, something that transgresses her into something maniacal. Her voice becomes distorted during the breakdown, accompanied by sound effects that mimic a malfunctioning record or machine.
A handful of fans online are surprised by the absence of the band’s lead vocalist, Noah Sebastian’s vocals that we are so familiar with in their discography. The choice was bold, but intentional, and it can’t be denied that the band is present throughout the track. Not only does this move correlate with Noah’s timely annoyance surrounding the oversexualisation and obsession with him as a celebrity, but his step back has paved the way for a refreshing sound. Poppy’s delicate vocals contrast Bad Omens’ heavy set beautifully. ‘V.A.N’ is certainly filled with the iconic intensity of their synths and the entire production of the song is reminiscent of their previous album THE DEATH OF PEACE OF MIND.
It’s odd, it’s melodic, and it screams Bad Omens.
Words by Layla Kiyani
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