For some, three years is a long wait, but for others, a release every three years is more realistic. This is a tradition that Theory Of A Deadman have had for the majority of their career, and with each release, the American rock band claim that the new music is always worth the wait. For their new EP, Part 1: Funeral Songs, not only do the four-piece promise just that, but they also deliver one of the most varied hard rock releases of the year.

The six song tracklist begins with ‘Barricade.’ Starting off with tribal chants as the intro to the main riff, instantly you can tell that this opener is going to be incredibly catchy. The first verse focuses on the vocals, and the guitars get more volume in the pre chorus before the infectious hook kicks in. The chorus is huge yet very down to earth as it is not overly heavy, yet has the perfect amount of raw energy which is expected for an opening track. This formula continues all the way to the bridge which in this case does not include a solo, but rather a heavier portion which includes the closest vocals we will get to harsh vocals. This bridge returns after the repetition of the final chorus to give this song the big ending it rightfully deserves.

Right on the halfway point of this EP is where the songs get so much more intriguing. ‘Winnebago (Lay Low)’ is the first of two country leaning tracks. Starting off with a stripped-down version of the chorus, the first verse is a tad bit more powerful, fuelled by snare drum rim hits and background guitars. The second chorus is just like the verse that came before it. It is the second verse where the full band revert to their normal sound, with the snare drum being hit as loud as possible. This is continued into the following chorus and short guitar solo. After the solo, which is the second on the overall track list, there is another verse which has a much longer pre-chorus. The following hook is by far the loudest, as it is the last one on the track. What makes this specific chorus so epic, is the guitar improvisation in the background which adds another layer to the song which feels necessary considering how much this chorus gets repeated.

Just like any release needs a strong opener, a solid closing track is just as crucial, and this is something that the hard rock outfit clearly understand. ‘Prenup’ is another unique song that showcases unfamiliarity within something traditional and basic. Starting off with what is a traditional pop introduction to the first verse, the EP closer truly comes to life during the chorus. Continuing with the simple riffs from the first verse, the vocals are elevated, and the drums are once again incredibly powerful. This is especially noticeable during the short solo section which once again features yells from vocalist Tyler Connolly. After the final chorus, the listener gets spoilt with the same solo section from earlier, but this time, it gets repeated whilst the track title gets repeated. This is how the EP ends. With the guitars wailing into the abyss.

Overall, the songs on this EP are basic, yet fun. Some such as the third track are memorable, with others being completely forgettable, but the real fun in this release is just how satisfying the choruses are throughout. These choruses truly elevate these songs, as not only are they satisfying, but they are also consistently strong.  Making for a release that is short, yet sweet, and if there will be a part two, surely, fans can expect it to be much sweeter.

Theory of a Deadman – Part 1: Funeral Songs – Out 4 September 2026 (ONErpm)

of a Deadman – Winnebago (Lay Low) [Official Music Video]