Popular Monster

“Popular Monster” is the fifth studio album by the American rock band Falling in Reverse, released on August 16, 2024. This album marks a significant return for the band, as it is their first full-length release in over seven years, following their 2017 album, Coming Home. The album reflects the evolution of the band’s sound, blending their signature rock and metalcore styles with more experimental elements, such as rap and electronic influences.

The lead single, “Popular Monster,” was released on November 20, 2019, and quickly became one of the band’s most successful tracks. The song peaked at number one on the US Mainstream Rock chart and number four on the Billboard Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart. Its success helped to solidify Falling in Reverse’s place in the modern rock scene. The song’s lyrics delve into lead vocalist Ronnie Radke’s personal struggles, exploring themes of mental health, societal pressure, and the transformation into what he describes as a “monster” due to external and internal conflicts. The music video for “Popular Monster,” directed by Jensen Noen, visually depicts Radke’s battle with his demons, culminating in a dramatic transformation into a werewolf, symbolizing his fight against the labels and judgments imposed on him by society.

The album itself features 11 tracks, including several hits that have already made a significant impact. Three of the tracks, including “Popular Monster,” have been certified gold, and one track has achieved double platinum status. In addition to the previously released singles, Popular Monster introduces six new tracks that showcase the band’s growth and willingness to push the boundaries of their sound. Notable collaborations on the album include the song “Ronald,” featuring Tech N9ne and Alex Terrible, and “All My Life,” featuring Jelly Roll. These collaborations bring a fresh dynamic to the album, blending diverse musical influences and adding new layers to Falling in Reverse’s signature style.

Ronnie Radke, the band’s frontman and primary songwriter, along with producer Tyler Smith, played a crucial role in shaping the album’s sound. Radke’s ability to fuse genres—melding rock, metalcore, and rap—creates a unique listening experience that resonates with a broad audience. The album’s lyrical content is deeply personal, reflecting Radke’s journey through adversity, self-reflection, and redemption.

In support of the album, Falling in Reverse announced The Popular Monstour II: World Domination, a summer 2024 headline tour. This tour will see the band performing across multiple countries, with a lineup of supporting acts that includes Black Veil Brides, Dance Gavin Dance, Tech N9ne, Jeris Johnson, and Nathan James. The tour is expected to be a high-energy, visually immersive experience that brings the themes of the album to life on stage.

Popular Monster represents a significant milestone in Falling in Reverse’s career. It not only underscores their enduring relevance in the rock and metal scenes but also highlights their ability to evolve and adapt to changing musical landscapes. With its blend of powerful lyrics, genre-defying sounds, and notable collaborations, the album has set a new standard for the band and continues to resonate with fans worldwide.