Waterparks Unveil Genre-Defying Fifth Album 'Intellectual Property' Marked by Raw Honesty and Eclectic Sound

Waterparks, the band known for their evolution from pop-punk to an eclectic fusion of pop-rock, electronic, and punk elements, have released their fifth studio album, 'Intellectual Property.' The album offers a dynamic and intense listening experience, characterized by twists and a creative boldness that borders on the unconventional.

Since their debut album 'Double Dare' in 2017, frontman Awsten Knight, drummer Otto Wood, and guitarist Geoff Wigington have rapidly expanded their musical footprint. Despite only seven years in the spotlight, the band has produced five distinct albums, each showcasing a different facet of their sound. 'Intellectual Property' continues this trend, further diversifying their musical identity.

The band’s 2021 release, 'Greatest Hits,' served less as a traditional compilation and more as a confident statement of their evolving artistry. This confidence was soon validated by a wave of five-star reviews and sold-out headline performances, particularly in the UK, where Waterparks have become a significant presence in the pop-punk scene.

The album opens with 'ST*RFUCKER,' featuring the candid lyric, 'I don’t wanna be toxic; I just wanna be honest,' setting a tone of raw honesty that permeates the record. However, the album balances vulnerability with high-energy fun, serving as a lighter and more eclectic counterpart to its darker predecessor.

Each track on the approximately 30-minute album stands out as a unique exploration of style. The closing track from their recent UK support slot with You Me at Six, 'REAL SUPER DARK,' blends cathartic shouting with industrial drumbeats. 'RITUAL' leans into heavier sounds, incorporating screams and nu-metal mumble rap alongside unexpected elements like an elephant trumpet.

Conversely, tracks like '2 BEST FRIENDS' and the meta-comedic 'ST*RFUCKER' offer upbeat, saccharine melodies that contrast with their lyrical content. 'END OF THE WATER (FEEL)' evokes the cinematic pop sensibilities reminiscent of The 1975, with falsetto vocals and electronic flourishes.

The album’s first single, 'FUNERAL GREY,' released in May 2022, features a toy guitar and delivers a bright, buoyant energy. The collaboration with blackbear on 'FUCK ABOUT IT' draws inspiration from the success of All Time Low’s 'Monsters,' combining catchy hooks with high-energy choruses.

A standout ballad, 'Closer,' explores themes of love, heartbreak, and hope through a guitar-led arrangement, adding emotional depth to the album’s diverse soundscape. The record concludes with a blend of hyper-pop elements and chaotic energy, punctuated by a final line fading into static: 'This is Waterparks.'

'Intellectual Property' encapsulates the band’s signature blend of fun, intensity, and experimentation. While the album’s genre-spanning nature may challenge some purists—heavier tracks might alienate pop-punk fans, and sweeter songs could perplex those favoring angst—the record offers something for a broad audience.

The release also sets the stage for Waterparks’ upcoming UK headline tour in autumn 2023, supported by Stand Atlantic. The tour includes notable venues such as the London Roundhouse on October 31, Sheffield O2 Academy on November 1, Cardiff Great Hall on November 3, Glasgow Barrowlands on November 22, and Birmingham O2 Academy on November 23.

In related music news, Virginia-based post-punk band Dayfiction has released their new EP 'Divine Intermission,' while Manchester singer-songwriter Bec O'Malley debuted with the single 'Let You Go.' Los Campesinos! are celebrating 20 years with their Vicennial Cringe tour, and Modest Mouse returned with 'An Eraser and a Maze,' their first album since 2021.

Other notable releases include Manchester’s Guilt Trip’s latest album, the tribute album 'I Built You A Tower,' and the dream-pop project 'If You Have A Bridge (I’m Buying).' Electronic duo Prospa and San Francisco trio Midrift have also made significant debut album releases. Luxembourg-based musician Jana Bahrich’s project Francis of Delirium recently released their sophomore album 'Run, Run Pure Beauty.' Additionally, Cara Delevingne has launched her musical career with a conceptually ambitious debut.

Waterparks’ 'Intellectual Property' stands as a testament to their artistic evolution and versatility, promising an engaging experience for fans and newcomers alike as they continue to shape the contemporary pop-punk and alternative music landscape.