Warning! Speed ahead!
Coheed and Cambria‘s latest release, “Blind Side Sonny“, is an electrifying addition to their expansive discography that showcases Claudio Sanchez’s unmatched vocal prowess alongside the band’s signature progressive fervor. This album is a testament to the bands unwavering ability to morph and experiment and this track: easily among their most audacious. The powerhouse combo of Claudio, Travis, Zach, and Josh show that time has not muted their ardor for inventive nuanced and layered orchestration. With the track’s aggressive tempo, scratchy vocals, and hammer-down percussion, the talented gents in Coheed & Cambria weave together elements of metal and punk. Additionally, they introduce a new villain in the ongoing Vaxis storyline!
“Blind Side Sonny,” encapsulates everything we love about Co&Cam. Soaring over the organized chaos: unhinged vocal performance that echoes early Rob Halford or Bruce Dickinson, courtesy of the Sci-fi Bard Claudio Sanchez. With thunderous and expert precision, Josh Eppard drives the breakneck tempo that demands mosh pit participation. I can confidently say this track is the most aggressive offering we’ve seen from the band. (I say this a superfan with every box set and demo they’ve released!!!!) The accompanying music video, directed by Max Moore, introduces us to a party crasher–- Sonny, who appears to be a loving homage to Iron Maiden’s Eddie.
In a recent interview, lead Singer Claudio Sanchez commented on the song’s themes of revenge and the perils of perception. This song serves to remind us how a seemingly innocent decision can lead to unexpected consequences—definitely a narrative we can all relate to.
Interestingly, In March and June of 2025, it’ll be 30 years since the formations of Beautiful Loser and Shabutie respectively. Claudio Sanchez has used every bit of his vast vocal range over the years. Most vocalists would normally be settling into more comfortable ranges as their voice ages/deteriorates. I won’t even start in on the Axl’s or Vince’s.. Most vocalists after as many years in the industry–touring as hard as Coheed have–would have some significant break down. But oh, indeed no… Not Claudio Sanchez…Claudio has taken damn good care of his voice and he fully sends it with a vocal prowess that rivals some of the greatest falsetto rockers and metal front men.
Coheed and Cambria prove that time and touring hasn’t dulled their edge, but rather sharpened it. “Blind Side Sonny’ is an experience that reinforces why they remain at the forefront of rock! Give it a spin, but hold on tight—you won’t regret it!
