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Banks Arcade - 'SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR' - Review
Updated: Sep 29
BAND. Banks Arcade joining Arising Empire was never on my bingo card but after listening to their latest album SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR, it all makes so much sense. A Melbourne-based New Zealand outfit joining one of Europe's modern metal strongholds is as unexpected as completely logical, and considering the their trademark affinity to nu-metal-adjascent, pop-infused, hip-hop-leaning, EDM-decorated, alternative metal, it all fits marvelously, resulting in a truly captivating sophomore record of the highest order.
REVIEW. Deservedly entering a whole new market, Banks Arcade are likely to expand their reach with SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR, but its true strenght lies in cementing their place as one of the most unique contemporary bands on the scene. The LP sees them fly higher than ever before, seemingly embracing creative freedom and unlimited scope to channel their wildest ideas and experimental vision in a truly cohesive and purposeful effort. A self-proclaimed "heavy metal boyband", the record reflects the label masterfully, with the all the quirkiness, swagger and flair it suggests.
🎶 SONGS. The promo singles did set the stage for an explosive release, from the nu-metal groove of 'SUPERSTAR' and seductive charm of 'SEVERENCE', to the anthemic charge of 'DON'T MISS' and relentless energy of 'YUCK!'. Compared to their debut Future Lovers (2022) and subsequent EPs DEATH 2 / A Muse (2024), SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR does slow down and take a step back to refocus, resulting in much bigger, bolder and diverse compositions, be it the pulsating 'MOVE' and stompy '000', the sweaty 'KNOW ME' and fragile 'WAIT', the passionate 'MIRROR' or symbollic cliffhanger 'HAVE FAITH'.
OVERALL. The years go quicker than we all want and Banks Arcade aren't immune to groqing up and maturing. They might have lost some spark in the process, that unpolished allure of Endnote (2018) or primal youthfull energy of Fever Dreams (2020), but have emerged as determined, honest and concise as one might want and expect to hear on a sophomore record. SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR clearly marks the beginning of a new chapter, fuelled by a fitting label switch, and so far everything points to the band remaining as reliably awesome as they have been since day one.
Banks Arcade - 'SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR'
Country: New Zealand
Release: 25 September
Label: Arising Empire
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