In their latest release, Bayside presents a gripping narrative of inner struggles and self-reflection. "The Devils" sets the stage, plunging listeners into the depths of mental turmoil, where familiar battles are fought anew with each passing day. The complexity of the sound mirrors the intricacies of the human psyche, capturing the essence of the song's thematic weight with remarkable precision.

Continuing on this introspective journey, "Castaway" delves deeper into the chaos of the mind, navigating the overwhelming noise of the world and the delicate balance of inner struggle and external relationships. The track serves as a poignant reminder of the isolation often felt amidst the cacophony of life's challenges.

Transitioning seamlessly into "Go to Hell," the album takes a lighter turn, embracing a more pop-punk sound that serves as a nostalgic homage to dreams and desires that ultimately prove fleeting. Yet, the abrupt shift in tone with "How To Ruin Everything" offers a stark contrast, accompanied by the raw energy of a collaboration with Ice Nine Kills.

"Good Advice" serves as a respite, with its infectious melodies and playful guitar riffs providing a welcome reprieve from the previous track’s darker undertones. Meanwhile, the haunting atmosphere of "Strangest Faces" captivates with its circus-inspired vibes, weaving a nightmarish tapestry that lingers long after the final notes fade.

"Say So Long" unfolds like a theme song for life's dramatics, encapsulating the ebb and flow of emotions as one navigates the tumultuous journey of existence. While "Bad Intentions" leaves much to the imagination and gives many interpretations a chance to be picked up, its enigmatic presence adds depth to the album's overarching narrative.

"Just Like Home" shines with its incredible guitar work, showcasing the band's musical prowess in full force. Finally, "I'm So Happy I Could Die" serves as a fitting conclusion to the album, offering a sense of closure and catharsis. The track showcases the duality of emotion and truly encapsulates the album title and story told throughout the record.

Throughout the album, Bayside masterfully navigates a landscape of contrasting themes and sounds, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of emotions that resonates deeply with listeners. With each track, they invite us to confront our own struggles and find solace in the journey towards self-discovery and acceptance. There Are Worse Things Than Being Alive is more than just an album—it's a transformative narrative that new and definitely old fans of the band can grasp onto.

10/10