Album Review: Surrender To You by Audio Nitrate
Audio Nitrate’s Surrender To You is a high-energy ride through the pulsating world of Happy Hardcore and Hardcore, released in 2019 under Justice Hardcore. This US-based project doesn’t just dip its toes into electronic music—it dives headfirst with relentless beats and euphoric melodies that stick to your brain like gum on a hot day.
The title track, “Surrender To You,” kicks things off with an explosion of synths so sugary they could give you cavities. It's one of those tracks where the build-up feels like climbing a rollercoaster, only for the drop to send you spiraling into pure chaos bliss. The vocals are pitched just right—cheesy enough to make you smirk but catchy enough to hum hours later. Honestly, it’s impossible not to move when this tune hits. I caught myself air-drumming at my desk more than once while listening.
Another standout is “(Track Name Missing From Data),” which—I’ll admit—isn’t ideal since I can’t pinpoint exactly what makes it memorable beyond vibes alone. But hey, sometimes it’s less about specifics and more about how something feels. And trust me, this one feels electric. Picture strobe lights flashing over a sweaty crowd losing their minds—that’s the energy we’re talking about here.
What sets Surrender To You apart isn’t groundbreaking innovation; it’s nostalgia wrapped in adrenaline. If you grew up vibing to old-school raves or late-night warehouse parties, this album will hit different. Even if you didn’t, there’s something raw and unapologetic about Audio Nitrate’s approach that grabs hold and doesn’t let go.
Here’s the kicker though: after blasting these tracks multiple times, I realized Happy Hardcore might actually be the most sincere genre out there. Beneath all the pounding kicks and glittery riffs lies a weird kind of optimism—a refusal to take itself too seriously even as it demands your full attention. Who knew surrendering could feel so… freeing?
So yeah, check out Surrender To You if you’re looking for music that punches hard but still leaves room for joy. Just don’t blame me if you end up dancing awkwardly in public.
