AFI, Snow Cats | Track Review 🎵

Goth-rock vets AFI returns with AFI (The Blood Album), their first album since 2013. “Snow Cats” serves as one of four pre-release singles.  

It’s hard to believe that AFI has been around since the 1990s.  Alas, it’s true. The Cali band returns after a four-year hiatus with AFI (The Blood Album).  AFI have experienced minor success over the years, earning two platinum-certified albums. Four singles were released ahead of The Blood Album.  Arguably, “Snow Cats” drew the most buzz.

“Snow Cats” opens with a respectable, somewhat predictable opening with arpeggiated guitar. It features clear vocals by frontman Davey Havok, who sounds as compelling as ever at 41 years old. Havok and company do a great job of establishing the theatric element of “Snow Cats” early on.  Havok is declaratory from the start:

“I am not scared enough
Prepared enough
You wanted me in distress
I’ve nothing left to fear
I am, I am here.”

Throughout the song, the use of backing vocals adds a nice touch, particularly on the chorus.  The chorus is enjoyable, even if catchy isn’t the correct word per se:

“I’ll wait for you another night
(As you like)
Dressed in Himalayan white
I’ll wait for you some other night
(Dressed as you like)
Dressed in Himalayan white.”

The first half of the verses sound a bit too spare in the production. Regardless, the second half of the verses are more filled out, with the chorus providing atonement. The bridge is heavier as well, clearly differentiating itself from the verse and chorus.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “Snow Cats” is an enjoyable, well-rounded offering from Cali rock band.

AFI • AFI (The Blood Album) • Concord • Release: 1.20.17

Photo Credit: Concord