Album Review: The Bastards – Palaye Royale

Two years after the release of their sophomore album, fashion-art rock band Palaye Royale are back with their third studio album: The Bastards. 

This release pulls no punches, harnessing darker themes and referencing real issues ranging from mental health to gun violence. One of the many strengths of the album is the vivid imagery and honest nature crafted by the band’s distinct lyrical approach. As a result, there’s a certain rawness and transparency that can be felt throughout the work. This helps to tie together the range of sounds the band has explored throughout the album into one cohesive piece of art. 

Stand-out single “Hang On To Yourself” perfectly captures the larger than life, cinematic flair that sets these rockers apart from the pack. With sweeping sound and soaring vocals, it’s a slick track packed full of vivid, decadent imagery that’s nothing short of sensational.

Fans who have been lucky enough to catch the band’s high energy live show may recognize the track “Masochist,” which has been known to make an appearance on their setlist in recent years. From the very first notes of its dramatic intro, this song commands attention, quickly and easily gets stuck in the listener’s head. 

“Lonely” slows things down a bit and offers a more vulnerable narrative. The sincere nature of the lyrics and heartfelt emotion that is clear in singer Remington Leith’s delivery will resonate deeply with fans. 

One of our favorite tracks, “Black Sheep” lies towards the very end of the album. This anthemic song offers an irresistible beat and a bridge that practically challenges the listener to scream along at the top of their lungs. Brimming with contagious, adrenaline-inducing energy, this stand-out song would translate well to the band’s live show. 

“Doom (Empty)” sounds like it would be perfectly at home in the world of a Tim Burton movie. There’s something undeniably haunting about the arrangement that’s likely to stay with the listener long after the final notes have faded away. 

The final track, “Redeemer,” is another exceptional piece of the release. With the escalating drama of the instruments layered behind Leith’s impassioned vocals, this track serves as a brilliant finale for the album. It shows that the band is continuing to expand its range while maintaining its signature edge. The track showcases their growth as both musicians and songwriters and will leave listeners eagerly waiting to hear more from the group. 

The Bastards shines by showing off Palaye Royale’s diverse range. Heavier tracks like “Anxiety” and “Massacre: The New American Dream” live beside softer, moving songs like “Stay” in perfect harmony. Threaded throughout are theatrical staples such as “Nightmares (Coming Down)” and “Tonight Is The Night I Die” that are sure to become instant fan favorites. 

Leith continues to prove his vocal prowess, delivering both power and vulnerability across the range of new material. His unique voice makes for one of the most charismatic listening experiences in the scene. 

Overall, The Bastards is a thoughtfully crafted album that captures Palaye Royale’s vibrant essence and showcases their continuing musical growth into this new era. It is an album that deserves to be played loud, played often and played for years to come.

Listen to more from Palaye Royale here.