Racketeer Radio KFQX The New Golden Age of Radio
Slowly Slowly returns with their most open and bold album yet, Forgiving Spree, a record that blends anthemic energy, raw emotion, and a dynamic edge. Drawing inspiration from The Killers, Bruce Springsteen, and John Farnham, while also channeling the contemporary influence of Gang of Youths, Stand Atlantic, and Pale Waves, Forgiving Spree offers listeners both a sense of familiarity and refreshing novelty.
Born from the excitement of the band’s 2022 Daisy Chain tour, Forgiving Spree is an album tailor-made for the live stage. Packed with singalong anthems, hip-shaking grooves, and infectious melodies, the record is a testament to the band’s refined pop sensibilities. The album’s layered sonic hooks and soaring choruses create an atmosphere primed for audience participation, all while being anchored by frontman Ben Stewart’s signature introspective lyricism and clever wordplay.
“We get to take Forgiving Spree around the world and sing these songs with you, watch them shapeshift on stage and become larger than the recordings – that is what is most exciting, the idea that it now feels shared,” Stewart shares. “I’m still very entrenched in album culture and believe deeply that it’s through full-length releases we get to see inside the musician’s mind. I just hope this time around, for our fans, it’s a kinder, more hopeful place that can offer some shelter for those weathering a storm.”
Marking a significant shift in the band’s creative process, Forgiving Spree sees Stewart opening up the writing process to collaboration for the first time. The album features contributions from acclaimed producers and songwriters, including Courtney Ballard (5 Seconds of Summer, Waterparks, State Champs, Stand Atlantic, Good Charlotte) and Suzy Shinn (Panic! At The Disco, Weezer, Fall Out Boy). Mixing duties were once again handled by UK heavyweight Jonathan Gilmore, known for his work with Wolf Alice, The 1975, and Nothing But Thieves.
At its core, Forgiving Spree is a reflection of Stewart’s personal growth over the past few years. Each track captures a distinct emotion or moment, weaving a deeply personal yet universally relatable narrative. The album explores themes of presence, self-awareness, and the power of forgiveness—both towards others and oneself—as a means of unlocking a more peaceful existence. Rather than adhering to a singular theme, Forgiving Spree presents a mosaic of experiences, painting a picture of personal transformation and the beauty found in embracing change.
With its infectious energy, introspective lyricism, and a sound built for live performance, Forgiving Spree cements Slowly Slowly’s place as one of the most exciting and evolving acts in modern music. Whether on record or in a packed venue, the album offers an emotional journey that fans old and new are bound to connect with.
Written by: Ace Hartmann
5 Seconds of Summer Bruce Springsteen Courtney Ballard Fall Out Boy Forgiving Spree Gang of Youths Good Charlotte Pale Waves Panic! At The Disco Slowly Slowly Stand Atlantic State Champs Suzy Shinn The Killers Waterparks Weezer
Each weekday at Noon Pacific Standard Time tune into Hot Off The Press for the hottest & newest tunes in the world of Punk Rock Rhythm and Blues. Join Ace Hartmann, Live! Bringing you the newest releases along with news, updates, upcoming events, your favorite classics, and so much more! Hear music from your beloved, favorite record labels to unsigned up-and-coming bands and artists
closeNod Rise Against
Cold Like This (feat. Dropkick Murphys) The Rumjacks
Beliefs and Thieves The Kilograms, Sammy Kay & Joe Gittleman
Copyright Pro Radio - Racketeer Broadcast Association 2025
Post comments (0)