SET IT OFF // SET IT OFF

Set It Off’s self-titled album is more than a collection of songs—it’s a declaration, unafraid to confront both the world and their own past.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)

Album Artwork

Independent rock powerhouse Set It Off return with their self-titled fifth studio album, which drops November 7th, 2025. Fresh off with an announcement that they will join the Download Festival lineup for 2026, the band that is known for their energetic shows, theatrical flair and genre-blending sound has spent over a decade building a reputation as one of modern rock’s most dynamic acts. Consisting for vocalist Cody Carson, guitarist Zach DeWall and drummer Maxx Danziger, Set It Off have brought their sound to a new level - more aggressive, more unshakable and somehow more vulnerable than before, maintaining a stable connection with their fans.

Set It Off’s self-titled release marks a pivotal moment for the band. It is their first fully independent album, following 2022’s Elsewhere, and it represents a bold statement for their artistic autonomy. They are free from label constraints and agendas, and able to lean into the raw energy and emotion that has always been their signature. Cody Carson has noted that “Every previous album was so necessary for us to be able to find this sound. This is not the final destination, but it’s the road we should have been running down the whole time.” The result is a record that is unapologetically heavy, honest, raw and emotionally charged.

Opening the album with “Pathological”, the band immediately announces the album’s theme: confrontation and catharsis. The song is a blend of aggressive riffs and rap-infused verses, targeting deceit and exploitation, with Carson calling out those who have manipulated and lied to get ahead. It is a furious opener setting the scene for what is to come: a sharp, direct and unrelenting sequel of frustration and empowerment. Following on with “Punching Bag” and “Rotten”, the momentum continues with rage and cleaner vocals, combining stadium-ready hooks with lyrical narratives that delve into fakeness, betrayal, self-preservation and accountability. Every song serves to add depth and variety to the album’s emotional landscape, bringing back some more emo-like melodies that feel like the perfect festival singalongs (or maybe an amazing rage workout soundtrack).

The same lyrical themes and catchy guitar riffs continue on to “Fake Ass Friends” and “What’s In It For Me?”, which feel like the perfect crescendo to the album’s middle. Musically, Set It Off is a masterclass in dynamic range - there is precise and hard-hitting drumming that drives the album forward, melodic and distorted guitar riffs to maintain the edge and variety and vocals that alternate between rap, anthemic choruses and screamo, all laced with intimate and confrontational lyrics. The tracks are all short but tightly-packed, making every second count and ensuring that the intensity is maintained through and through. For catching and sing-along verses, “Evil People”, the next track on the list and personal favourite, is exactly what we need to spark conversation about confrontation. It grabs attention and refuses to let go. “The Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing [REBORN]” continues on the same theme, showcasing the seamlessness between melodic guitars and distorted slightly horror-inspired riffs that hit the punch. It is definitely a standout song and one that will definitely be popular amongst live audiences. 

There is no dip as we move into the later tracks that feel a bit more upbeat and sarcastic, “Vicious Cycle”, “Creating Monsters” and “Parasites” definitely lean into the energetic and metalcore-influenced riffs with anthemic choruses that are a perfect example of Set It Off’s hybrid and constrastic sound of rage and melody. They bring the high intensity and theatricality of Ice Nine Kills, echoing early Avenged Sevenfold and darker emocore elements. The tracks are probably the most representative to prove that the band has not only grown as an independent force in rock, but they can now fully embrace their sound, blend rage with melody and theatricality, and ultimately declare their true identity and creative autonomy. 

The album closes off with “Worst Case Scenario”, blending cinematic riffs, precision drumming and emotive vocals to round up the record as a full-throttle statement. It is a record that brings fury and is for anyone who has faced betrayal, sought empowerment and also craves the thrill of music that blends aggression with metalcore emotion. With a full North American tour coming alongside Fame On Fire, VANA and The Pretty Wild, the album promises to come alive in the arena, and deliver the high-octane performance that the fans have come to expect from Set It Off. 

REVIEW BY: CHARIS LYDIA BAGIOKI