Band: Almost Kings

Album: Forever This Time

Genre: Rap/rock

Release date: August 25, 2017

Standout tracks: “Better Than This,” “OMG,” “Closer to You,” and “Bad One”

I never know what to expect from Almost Kings, and that may hold true more for this album than any of their others. After a few lineup changes, including the addition of a second rapper and a DJ, there was no way to anticipate how Forever This Time would sound. Every record Almost Kings has released has been different from its predecessor, but what direction would they take with only two of the original members left?

Well, I’ll tell you. There is not a single dull moment on this album. In the opening track, “With Force,” the listener immediately receives an introduction to Jude Buckingham, who lends his own brand of rap to Bozeman’s smooth flow. There is also a shining example of what DJ Breezus Khrist can do.

And the formalities end there.

Almost Kings storms in at the top of their game, and they don’t slow down until Bozeman’s promise at the very end of the record: “We ain’t leavin’.”

The band stays true to its interesting blend of rap and rock with songs such as “Envy and Enemies,” “Forever This Time,” and “Where It All Ends.” The rock edge is heavier than ever, the subject matter matching the vibe, tending towards rising above your enemies and the realization of our own mortality.

Not for nothing, though, is Almost Kings known as a party rock band. Want something to get you moving? “OMG,” “Bad One,” “Lit,” and “The Weekend” fit the bill nicely, further showcasing AK’s funk/dance/hip-hop side.

A harder and funkier punch than their past releases, intricately woven with that uniqueness that keeps the AK faithful coming back, Forever This Time is a perfect example of why we love this Atlanta-based sextet. This album has something for everyone. You’ll go from headbanging, to bobbing your head, to dancing like a fool, and you will love every minute of it.

I don’t have an official rating system, but I used “stars” when I reviewed Alter Bridge’s The Last Hero, so… I give Forever This Time 5/5 stars. If you’re already familiar with Almost Kings, I’m certain you’ll be satisfied. If you’ve never heard them, then this is a fantastic place to start!