A.R.S.O.N. finds Story Of The Year doing what they have always done best, channeling frustration, reflection, and catharsis into songs that feel both immediate and lived-in. The album wastes no time setting the tone, opening with “Gasoline (All Rage Still Only Numb),” an aggressive, angsty burst of energy that feels like striking a match and committing to the burn. It is raw, confrontational, and unapologetic, making it clear that this record is not interested in easing the listener in.

That intensity carries directly into “Disconnected,” which shifts the focus inward without losing its edge. The track leans heavily into themes of regret, emotional distance, and the realization that certain connections do not feel the same anymore. Vocally, it stands out as one of the strongest moments on the album, with Dan moving effortlessly between calm, melodic lines and raw, emotionally charged screams. It is a reminder of how effective Story Of The Year can be when they balance vulnerability with sheer force.

As the album unfolds, tracks like “See Through,” “Into The Dark,” and “My Religion” tap into a familiar sense of nostalgia. These songs carry the DNA of older Story Of The Year material, both in tone and structure, without feeling like a band stuck in the past. Instead, they come across as confident callbacks, grounded by modern production and a sharper sense of control. For longtime fans, these moments will feel especially rewarding.

“Better Than High” pulls the album into a quieter space, slowing things down with an acoustic-driven approach that gives the listener a moment to breathe. The song works well on its own, but its placement in the tracklist feels slightly off. It would have felt more natural either directly before or directly after “Halos,” rather than sitting where it does. It is a relatively minor issue, but one that stands out simply because the rest of the album flows so smoothly.

The album ends on a high note with “I Don’t Wanna Feel Like This Anymore,” a standout track and a personal favorite. The message is direct and emotionally resonant, centering on the desire to move forward and improve mentally, even when everything feels heavy. The delivery carries just enough energy to validate a self reflective crash without tipping into despair. It is honest, relatable, and a strong way to close the record.

Overall, A.R.S.O.N. is a confident and well-executed release that checks a lot of boxes for a wide range of listeners. The production is clean without being sterile, the soundscape is full and intentional, and the attention to detail shines through in everything from the riffs to the guttural vocals. It feels like a band that knows exactly who they are and how to deliver that experience effectively in 2026.

Rating: 8.1/10