Aussie metalcore outfit Northlane recently released their fifth studio album, Alien, an intense record that delves into frontman Marcus Bridge’s violent upbringing living with drug-addicted parents. While there are important, heartfelt and serious tones and influences in the heavier themes of the LP, we caught up with bassist-vocalist (and ex-Structures frontman) Brendon Padjasek to flip the script and lighten the mood with a different subject — what albums he loves that might surprise fans of his band — and he had some great throwback, awesome picks.
Circa Survive – Juturna
I have never heard an album this unique since its release. Every time I listen to it I hear something l’ve never heard before. Truly musical.
The Used – Self-Titled
The album that I needed to hear when I was in grade seven. I think I could successfully say if it weren’t for this album I wouldn’t be here today writing the answers to this interview. It shaped my musical taste to come.
Against Me! – Reinventing Axl Rose
Before this album entered my life I listened to “radio music,” if you will. This was my first dive into independent punk. The songs are so raw and real. I believe they only had a few days to record the entire album and it shows. I think that’s why I love punk. The message outweighs all else.
Kendrick Lamar – To Pimp a Butterfly
To me, this is rap/hip-hop at its finest. I also love jazz, so hearing artistic poetry over jazz is what caught my ears instantly. The message in every song is beautiful. Kendrick has a way with words.
Blink 182 – Self-Titled
I could listen to this album on repeat and probably not get sick of it. I was a huge fan of blink since EOTS in ’99 and this is the most musically mature album by them. The songs are actually magnificent and none of it would have happened without Box Car Racer.
