Album Review: UNTO OTHERS Never, Neverland

Unto Others is a stellar band that has so much to offer so many different kinds of fans. Certainly, the metal aspect is there. There are loud, distorted, guitars, a great deal of speed and just the right amount of attitude. But in addition, for those of us who love the goth and a touch of pop, this band really scratches the itch.

I’m a huge fan of bands like Sisters of Mercy, Tribulation, Love and Rockets and, of course, Type O Negative. As such, I’ve been following this band since their early days back when they were known as Idle Hands. Their first record Mana was intriguing. They followed it up with the powerful Strength. Never, Neverland, however, is actually their best yet.

The band took a more collaborative approach to this recording with lead vocalist and guitarist Gabriel Franco letting go of the reins a bit. Additionally, bassist Brandon Hill adds backup vocals for the first time in the band’s history. Franco calls this newest record “The best thing we’ve ever done.” He’s not wrong. This record really demonstrates a great evolution in a short amount of time.

“Momma Likes the Door Closed” is a tight rocker with massive riffs, bombastic percussion and West Hollywood style snarl. There’s a touch of Misfits and Danzig in this cut as well. The band, however, can slow it down and strip it down as well with songs like the ballad-y “Angel of the Night” and slightly pop-inspired “Suicide Today,” and more upbeat “Sunshine” which will have you signing right along.

“Butterfly” is not just an amazing song and 80’s goth worship. It’s clearly original enough to stand on its own, with a passion for musicianship and brevity. Such a well crafted track, the band also gives us this dreamy, post-modern video by Zev Deans.

Other tracks I love on this record are the bouncy “When the Kids Get Caught,” the thrashy, speed-infested “Flatline,” and the laid back and darkly beautiful “Cold World.” “Raigeki” also has a very memorable and novel guitar solo.

There is a great deal of diversity on this record. Unto Others can speed it up and rock out and then turn on a dime and get emotionally sentimental and slow. With an astounding 16 tracks on Never, Neverland, you’d be hard pressed to find even a second of filler. Quite simply, every single one of the songs on this record is breathtakingly impressive.

Overall, there’s been a lot of buzz about this band, really from Day One. The buzz, is most definitely warranted. Unto Others is such a talented group of individuals and they’re giving us some of the best music out of Portland since Agalloch.

Perhaps the perfect record for the Halloween season, Never, Neverland is, quite simply, one of 2024’s greatest LPs. It’s heavy at times, mellow and contemplative at others. Just the perfect mix.