For fans, the news of guitarist Ryan Ross and bassist Jon Walker leaving Panic! At The Disco because of musical differences was just as bad as a break-up. After their brilliant rock-synth debut ‘A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out’ and more eclectic, folk-inspired follow-up ‘Pretty. Odd.’, the Las Vegas bad have build up a remarkably huge fan base. For many, however, Ross was their favourite, so with him leaving, their loyalty was thrown up in the air.
Of course, Ross was to come back to music, that was never in question, and now alongside Walker, the pair have formed a new band, The Young Veins.
With frontman Brendon Urie and highly talented drummer Spencer Smith continuing under the Panic! At The Disco name, undoubtedly, the next step for each band would be put under much scrutiny, and as round one emerged, it was Panic who came out on top.
Far too much of a coincidence to ignore, both bands debuted new tracks last Tuesday. Part of the upcoming soundtrack for Megan Fox’s new film Jennifer’s Body, Panic! At The Disco moved back towards their high-paced, more rock style interjected with synth-ish ‘ooooohs’. ‘New Perspective’ is infectuous, full of life with shout-them-back lyrics. Just what Panic always did best.
The Young Veins’ first track was a lot closer to ‘Pretty. Odd’, harbouring the same folk sensibilities, perhaps with a Beatles-y edge to it. There are flashes of genious but after a while the song grows tiresome and doesn’t have the uplifting nature it needs. It’s undoubtedly an early master, so Ross and Walker have nothing really to worry about, though Ross certainly does need to bulk up his vocals a little.
Round one, though, definitely goes to Panic! At The Disco, and we wait with baited breath what new albums will bring for the respective new line-ups.
Panic! At The Disco will be touring with Blink 182 and No Doubt over the next month. And The Young Veins are currently working on their debut album.