When in Doubt – History
When in Doubt is a Pop Punk/Alternative Rock band that originated back in 2014 in Marlboro, New Jersey. This band followed the blog’s Instagram a while back and I’m disappointed to say I only recently checked out their music. I only wish I was rocking out to them sooner. On March 9th, 2018, When in Doubt released their EP, History.
When in Doubt currently consists of Richie Mandanici (lead vocals), Mike Benigno (lead guitar), Pete Beningno (drums) and Tj Haefner (bass). I was lucky enough to get the chance to discuss History with Richie Mandanici. “The New EP ‘History’ drives inspiration from experience, heart break, and confidence in the band’s family. We’ve been through a lot and used this release to showcase our talents in song construction and melodies. We lost two members two years ago and took a while to write four new songs steering toward a style we are more interested in. With more difficult vocals, guitar parts, and drums. Our bassist Mike Benigno wrote all guitars, rhythms and leads for this latest release; making the recordings a lot tighter and less going on. So after that we did what we do best, write melodically complex pop punk songs with our own heavier kick to it.” Richie described History perfectly. It is a four track pop punk album that will have fans singing along to the melodic chorus’ and dancing away to the heavy instrumentals present throughout the EP.
History starts off with “Gravediggers.” I love that this song has a slow guitar intro that leads into a heavy bass build up. The build up transitions perfectly into a whole band jam session that highlights the bands “heavier” instrumentals that Richie Mandanici referenced. The incorporation of heavier instrumentals in a pop punk song always excites me and When in Doubt does it effortlessly. The introduction of “Gravediggers ” then segues into a fast paced, more traditional pop punk style. I really like the meaning behind this song more than anything else. “It says relax, hold your breathe and take my hand, do not be afraid to try and live again, It’s not your fault, life is like an armed land mine, you get what you get until that death decides it’s your time.” I really like this message because it is something that so many of us have difficulty coming to terms with. We are so nervous to live our lives because of the “what ifs,” but if we don’t live our life to fullest now, we may never get the chance. You only get one life and have to make the most of it!
“Gravediggers” is followed up by “Left Your Mark“, my personal favorite song on History. The upbeat, hard hitting instrumentals immediately hook you on the song, and if that doesn’t do it for you, you’ll find yourself singing along to the chorus every time. “Okay, I think it’s safe to say we’re good, can we go back to the way things should be, when you were cray, crazy for me. Your eyes, staring into mine as you say goodnight, I miss the days, I miss the days lately, When you were cray, crazy for me.” It’s obvious through these first two songs alone that the EP is based on past experiences, relationships, etc. The boys of When in Doubt put everything out on the table with History, something that fans will love and appreciate.
The EP ends with “History” and “Miles“. “History” incorporates instrumentals that give off a big Four Year Strong/Set Your Goals vibe in their early days. If you’re a true fan of Pop Punk, you’ll love this song. “ Miles” is a song that I’m so happy When in Doubt included on History. The song starts with a slow guitar chord that allows Richie to show off his vocal talents. It also proves that the band does not need hard hitting, fast paced instrumentals in each song to make it a banger. It’s funny how the slower songs on the album usually makes for the the best song for a breakdown. The mini breakdown at the end of the song leads into powerful vocals; “I’m falling in love for you, all my life I’ve never known the truth, but I see you here, I feel you here, I see you here with me.” For an EP that is heavily centered around past experiences and relationships, I think When in Doubt chose the perfect song to end History with.
When in Doubt’s new EP, History, is a perfect example of a band that is coming into their own and perfecting their sound. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for this band as they continue to grow and do what they love. “Throughout our three years of being around, we’ve learned nothing comes easy and we’re prepared to work for what we love to do and climb to the top doing just that.” Keep it up guys and your handwork will surely be noticed!