BMTH Reimagines Debut: Old Sound, New Questions

Rock band Bring Me The Horizon is commemorating the 20th anniversary of their debut album, 'Count Your Blessings,' by re-recording it. The Sheffield-based group, which began in the deathcore genre in 2004, released their aggressive debut in 2006. However, their subsequent work evolved towards metalcore, pop, and electronic rock, eventually leading them to headline major festivals.

Frontman Oli Sykes expressed enjoyment in revisiting their roots, aiming to capture the sound they initially envisioned. This re-recording has prompted fan debate regarding the original lyrics, which have faced criticism for misogynistic content. Concerns have also been raised about Sykes' capacity to perform the intense scream vocals of his youth, particularly given a past vocal cord injury.

Fans like Sash Vee see the re-recording as an appreciation of their beginnings, though she acknowledges the controversy surrounding the lyrics. Sykes mentioned feeling 'bummed out' by the original album's sound, noting a lack of production guidance. He stated the new version is 'way easier to listen to' and sounds like a 'proper record,' though he confirmed lyrics were not altered, wanting to preserve the original 'Count Your Blessings.'

Lorna Crowther, a long-time fan, praises the raw vocals of the early sound. Bring Me The Horizon's musical evolution began after their second album, with later releases achieving significant mainstream success. Sykes' voice has undergone changes, including a ruptured vocal cord in 2019. Vocal coach Jade Maris noted that while harsh vocal techniques can be damaging, safer methods exist. Sykes admitted it took effort to rediscover his scream technique for the re-recordings, describing it as tapping into a 'demonic gremlin' voice.

The re-recorded 'Count Your Blessings' is scheduled for release on July 10. Bring Me The Horizon will also perform the album in its entirety in Manchester on July 10 and 11, with tickets currently available.