Review | Wednesday 13 – Mid Death Crisis

Napalm Records

WEDNESDAY 13 is back with a new album ‘Mid Death Crisis’, back to surprise old and new fans alike. Within the shock rock and glam metal scene, the band has positioned itself as something of a macabre party guest. But this album shows that WEDNESDAY 13 and its bandmates not only want to honor the genre, but also try to innovate and explore it.

With WEDNESDAY 13 starring as both vocalist and primary lyricist. The other band members, including Jack Tankersley (guitar), Troy Doebbler (bass) and Mike Dupke (drums), bring a solid and energetic sound. The instrumentation on ‘Mid Death Crisis’ is especially notable for its versatility – while the slashing guitar riffs and thumping bass lines keep the album in a traditional rock sound. We also find influences of gothic rock and even a touch of grunge.

GRITTY HUMOR

So let’s talk about the voice of WEDNESDAY 13 itself. While it is certainly a recognizable feature of the band, I must honestly say that it is sometimes just not quite my cup of tea. His raw, pinched voice, which has both playful and sinister undertones, can sometimes come across as a bit monotonous. For some listeners, it may be the perfect ingredient for the music, but for me it could use a little more variety at times.

Still, there is plenty to appreciate on this album. Songs that are both riff-oriented and energetic. Songs full of gritty humor and nods to the horror genre. The catchy choruses are unadulterated metal, with a nod to punk and gothic flair to keep it exciting.

I have to admit that I really had to give this album quite a few listens to get through it completely. Once accustomed to it I can listen through WEDNESDAY 13’s voice and very definitely hear beautiful and surprising things. All in all, ‘Mid Death Crisis’ is a good album.

WEDNESDAY 13 – THE CONCLUSION

It is an album that shows more variety, without losing sight of the band‘s identity. WEDNESDAY 13 is not quite my taste, but I respect the way he has managed to evolve his own brand of rock. ‘Mid Death Crisis’ has a production that remains raw enough to feel authentic, but can also be refined.

If you are a fan of rock that balances humor, darkness and honest emotion, ‘Mid Death Crisis’ is definitely worth a listen. If you want to catch this outfit live, plenty of chance this second half of 2025, as they will play all across Europe.

Release date: 25 April 2025