Headline Maniac’s Headline Maniac: A Rock Gem That Still Kicks in 2016 (and Beyond)
Let’s cut to the chase—this album is a wild ride. Released back in 2016 by the UK-based band Headline Maniac, Headline Maniac doesn’t mess around when it comes to delivering raw rock energy. With labels like Not On Label and RodHot Records backing them, you’d think they’d play it safe. Nope. This record feels like a middle finger to mediocrity, packed with tracks that hit hard but leave room for some soul-searching vibes too.
Now, I’m not gonna pretend every song blew my socks off (because honestly, who has time for that?), but there are two tracks that stuck with me long after the final chord faded. First up: “Hero.” It’s got this gritty guitar riff right outta the gate that grabs your attention like a bouncer at a dodgy club. The vocals? Raw and unapologetic, like someone shouting their truth from a rooftop while throwing bottles at pigeons. There’s something about the way the chorus swells—it makes you wanna punch the air or maybe even cry into your beer if you’re feeling extra emo that day.
Then there’s “I Want All Your Love,” which flips the vibe entirely. Where “Hero” is all edge and attitude, this one leans into pure, unfiltered desire. The bassline grooves so smooth it practically winks at you, and the lyrics? Cheesy as hell, but somehow it works. Like, yeah, we’ve heard love songs before, but this one feels less like a Hallmark card and more like a drunken confession scribbled on a napkin at 3 AM. You know those moments where you just feel too much? This track nails that chaotic energy perfectly.
The rest of the album keeps things interesting, bouncing between angsty anthems (“I’m Bad (Rotten To The Core)”) and moody introspection (“Idiot Me”). Tracks like “You’re The One For Me” bring back that old-school rock charm, while “Get Away” reminds you why headbanging will never go out of style. But let’s be real—it ain’t perfect. Some songs feel a bit repetitive, and a couple could’ve used another round in the studio. Still, these minor hiccups don’t kill the overall buzz.
What really stands out here is how alive the whole thing feels. It’s messy, loud, and unpolished in the best possible way. Listening to Headline Maniac feels like crashing a house party where everyone’s having way too much fun. Sure, the neighbors might complain, but who cares? Sometimes, music needs to be a little reckless to remind us what it’s all about.
So, would I recommend this album? Absolutely. Just don’t expect perfection—expect passion. And hey, isn’t that what rock ‘n’ roll is supposed to be anyway?
Oh, and here’s a random thought to leave you with: If this album were a person, it’d probably have tattoos, smoke rollies, and show up late to everything—but damn, would it make an impression.
