They say that good things come to those who wait, and for Pendulum fans this has finally proven true! After waiting over a decade, the iconic drum n bass group made a monumental return on September 17th. Stunning us all with a double A-side release of Driver and Nothing For Free, Pendulum is surely making up for lost time. As the first original material fans have heard since Pendulum’s massive 2010 Immersion album, it’s easy to say Pendulum has exceeded expectations.
Each single arrived within hours of each other, with Driver being the first to break Pendulum’s decade long silence. In true Pendulum fashion Driver hits with surreal speed; delivering staggering synths and a raw, thundering bassline. Some may note the unmistakable Knife Party likeness within this track, showcasing the genre infusion Pendulum is known for. One of the most beautiful, detailed aspects of Driver is the fact that it picks up right where Encoder ends. Pendulum gives a dutiful nod to Immersion by revamping the same water splashing sample, yet now it sounds like we’ve emerged to the other side.
Everything that Driver is, Nothing For Free is not but in the best way possible. Rob’s hauntingly soulful vocals nearly steal the show with a mesmerizing grace. There’s a greater detail focus on the chorus and live instrumentals, showcasing Pendulum’s sophisticated styling. One of the most intriguing facets of Nothing For Free are the lyrics and official music video. Here Pendulum gives us an observation on our current global issues, specifically COVID-19, through the eyes of rabbits experiencing their own myxomatosis pandemic. It’s truly a must watch clip, which you can find here!
Ever since Rob Swire and Gareth McGrillen’s electrifying Knife Party project blew up in 2011, Pendulum was forced to take a backseat. However rumors of a potential Pendulum revival have swung around the music world ever since their legendary 2016 Ultra set. Moving forward it would be that chance regrouping that would lead to the creation of new music; eventually leading to the production of Nothing For Free. To some die hard Pendulum fans this track may sound familiar, due to it’s debut premiere in Perth, Australia in 2019.
Prepare for the nostalgia and give a listen to Pendulum’s new songs below!
What do you think of Pendulum’s triumphant revival? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter!
Important things happen in Pacific Northwest nightlife, and DMNW will send you alerts!
