Review By Glen Parkes
When Paris alt-rock trio Storm Orchestra declared they were ready to “Get Better”, they weren’t just talking about polishing their sound—they meant leveling up the entire alt-rock game. Out on 11th April via Mascot Records, their debut album is a ferocious yet melodic statement of intent, packed with stadium-sized hooks, emotionally charged anthems, and moments of raw vulnerability.
For those unfamiliar, Storm Orchestra—comprised of Maxime Goudard (vocals, guitar), Adrien Richard (bass), and Loïc Fouquet (drums)—have been blazing through the French underground since their self-titled debut EP in 2020, and their electrifying live shows have turned them into one of the country’s most explosive rising acts. Now, with Get Better, they combine the intensity of Royal Blood, the melodic finesse of Muse, and the anthemic punch of Nothing But Thieves, creating a debut that feels both familiar and fiercely original.
A Thunderous Opening with Stadium-Worthy Firepower
The album opens with “Bright Soul”, a searing, riff-driven anthem that sets the tone immediately. Goudard’s fierce, gravelly vocals soar over pummeling basslines and thunderous drumming, creating a swirling wall of sound. The crunching guitar hooks give the track a gritty, garage-rock edge, while the soaring chorus feels custom-built for massive singalongs. The lyrics wrestle with inner turmoil and defiance, setting the stage for the emotional ride ahead.
Next up is “Drummer”, an adrenaline-fueled punch to the gut. The track gallops with unrelenting energy, driven by Loïc Fouquet’s precise, machine-gun drumming. The syncopated rhythms and chugging guitars create an almost industrial rawness, giving the song a gritty, chaotic edge. It’s a riotous crowd-pleaser that feels destined to ignite mosh pits across the globe.
Heavy-Hitters and Arena-Ready Anthems
“Crush the Mirrors” sees Storm Orchestra team up with Chunk! No, Captain Chunk!, delivering an explosive collaboration that fuses pummeling post-hardcore energy with soaring alt-rock choruses. The track’s feral intensity and brutal breakdowns contrast perfectly with the anthemic, melodic chorus, making it an instant standout. The dual-vocal attack adds a layer of raw, emotional desperation, making this one of the heaviest and most memorable tracks on the record.
The album takes a sultry turn with “Superplayer”, a groove-laden, bluesy banger with swaggering basslines and seductive vocals. The infectious rhythm section and gritty guitar licks give it a funk-infused edge, while Goudard’s charismatic, half-spoken delivery adds a layer of rockstar attitude. It’s a slick, stylish standout that showcases the band’s versatility and flair.
Emotional Gut-Punches and Vulnerable Moments
As Get Better progresses, Storm Orchestra reveals their softer, more vulnerable side. “Cut Loose, Somehow” is a slow-burning emotional powerhouse, opening with delicate guitar melodies and haunting vocals. The track builds with aching intensity, erupting into a soul-stirring chorus filled with angst and longing. Goudard’s vocals are both fragile and fiery, perfectly capturing the ache of heartbreak and self-doubt.
“Désolé”, featuring JJ Wilde, is a breathtaking duet that fuses French and English lyrics with seamless elegance. The aching harmonies and delicate instrumentation give the song a wistful, cinematic quality, while the raw vulnerability of the lyrics makes it deeply moving. The chemistry between Goudard and Wilde is palpable, making this one of the most poignant moments on the album.
The Anthemic Heart of the Album
The second half of the record sees Storm Orchestra returning to their anthemic roots with tracks destined to rattle stadium rafters. “We Will Be The Last” is a towering, defiant rallying cry, brimming with pounding drums, soaring vocals, and cinematic guitar swells. The song builds to a euphoric crescendo, making it impossible not to raise your fists in solidarity.
“Tear Myself Down” follows suit with a visceral, emotionally raw performance. The chugging bassline and distorted guitar riffs create a claustrophobic, brooding atmosphere, while Goudard’s vocals shift from a haunting croon to a tormented scream. It’s a gritty, emotionally charged highlight that showcases the band’s ability to convey raw vulnerability through sheer sonic force.
A Climactic Finish with Unrelenting Energy
As the album nears its end, “This Game” injects a shot of adrenaline back into the mix. The punchy, danceable rhythms and catchy hooks make it a certified crowd-pleaser, blending funky grooves with alt-rock bite. It’s a brash, rebellious anthem that captures the band’s fiery live energy.
The title track, “Get Back In Time”, is pure nostalgia-fueled euphoria, with glimmering guitar lines and emotive vocals that evoke a wistful longing for the past. The track’s infectious hooks and shimmering production make it instantly accessible, while the lyrical vulnerability makes it deeply relatable.
The album closes with “Our Victory” and “Trash The Room”, a one-two punch of defiance and catharsis. “Our Victory” is a slow-burning, emotional epic, while “Trash The Room” is a chaotic, riff-fueled closer that unleashes the full force of the band’s punk spirit. It’s a fittingly explosive finale that leaves you exhilarated and craving more.
Verdict: A Debut Album That’s Destined for the Big Leagues
With Get Better, Storm Orchestra prove they’re not just another alt-rock band—they’re the future of the genre. The album’s perfect blend of ferocity, melody, and vulnerability makes it an unforgettable debut, packed with stadium-sized anthems, soul-bearing ballads, and blistering rockers.
For fans of Royal Blood, Muse, and Nothing But Thieves, this is essential listening, but Get Better goes beyond mere comparisons—it cements Storm Orchestra as a rising powerhouse with the potential to dominate the global stage.
If you’re looking for a record that makes you want to scream, cry, and conquer the world, Get Better is your soundtrack.
Tracklist:
- Bright Soul
- Drummer
- Crush the Mirrors (feat. Chunk! No, Captain Chunk!)
- Superplayer
- Cut Loose, Somehow
- Désolé (feat. JJ Wilde)
- We Will Be The Last
- Tear Myself Down
- This Game
- Get Back In Time
- Our Victory
- Trash The Room
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