The Montagues are back, and their new EP Verona is an emotionally charged ride through the band’s soul. If you’re looking for indie rock with an emotional punch, almost as though it could fit into most episodes of The O.C, this is it. Verona reflects the highs, lows, and emotional battles the band has faced in recent years, serving as a cathartic release of pain, love, and hope.

Recorded at Liverpool’s legendary Motor Museum Studios with producer Ben Harper, Verona sees The Montagues at their most united. The five-piece worked in seamless harmony to craft a collection that feels raw, real, and honest. Their signature indie sound gets a heavier twist here, pulling from influences like Nothing But Thieves, Muse, and Queens of the Stone Age. The result? An EP that blends soaring rock anthems with introspective tracks, offering a perfect balance of heart-pounding energy and emotional depth.

The EP opens with “Juicebox,” a rip-roaring modern rock track about standing by a loved one enduring a major medical procedure from a young age. Its powerful message of unconditional love—”I will love you even more, no matter the scars along the way”—is one of comfort, resilience, and hope. The song is as cathartic as it is uplifting, with emotional guitar breaks and crescendos that roar like an emotional release, encapsulating the power of love through adversity.

Next is “Vehemently,” a beautiful and heartfelt track described as an oath to a partner, promising to be there “for the highs and the lows.” The Montagues venture into new territory here, adding brass and string sections to complement their melodic indie rock foundation, heightening the emotion of support and devotion. The track showcases the band’s ability to push their sound into fresh, unexplored areas.

Track three, “Gravitate,” is a bold anthem about taking the leap of faith and embracing new directions in life. With the lyric “Don’t hesitate, your feet are on the edge,” the band captures the courage required to make transformative decisions. The song’s energy reflects that brave, exhilarating moment when you stop second-guessing and gravitate toward your future.

Then comes “Circus,” a haunting yet hypnotic track described as a “subliminal mind mess.” It weaves melodic optimism with gritty guitar work, exploring emotional chaos and inner turmoil while still offering glimmers of hope. With its hypnotic rhythms and swirling melodies, Circus pulls listeners into the tension of staying hopeful even when life feels overwhelming, delivering one of the most nuanced tracks on the EP.

The EP closes with “Breathe,” a deeply personal song about the loss of a father, who was both a mentor and guiding force in life and music. Frontman Kyle Parry’s raw emotion bleeds through the lyric “Feels like you’re always by my side,” as he reflects on his father’s influence and presence, even in his absence. It’s a poignant end to Verona, resonating with anyone who has experienced the complex, enduring nature of grief and love.At its core, Verona is a triumph, proving that out of darkness can come beauty. Keep an eye on The Montagues—they’re only getting started.

Emily Marsden – Editor
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