Mayday Parade - Sad

2025 marks twenty years since Mayday Parade’s formation; a tremendous occasion that the band are celebrating with a three-part album release. This trilogy is Mayday Parade’s first self-released collection since their debut EP ‘Tales Told By Dead Friends’; in the space of two decades, the band have gone from selling their music in Warped Tour parking lots to gracing the festival’s main stage. It's a testament to the band's enthusiasm for their craft that they remain a cornerstone of the emo/pop-punk genres.

‘Sad’ is the second instalment of this anniversary trilogy and is a mirror image of part one’s ‘Sweet’, which brought bright, high-energy anthems – where ‘Sad’ instead eases the intensity and brings a more grounded approach. Despite the title, the album doesn’t wallow in self-pity or angst but instead shows mature, honest lyricism. Mayday Parade are a band that have always been unafraid of their vulnerability, with ‘Sad’ continuing to be both personal yet relatable in its sincerity.

‘One Day at a Time’ sees Sanders looking inwards to make progress outwards in this pensive soft-rock ballad about growth and acceptance. ‘Under My Sweater’ is a nostalgic pop-punk hit – quintessentially Mayday Parade – with a soaring chorus and catchy lyrics; the band affirm that they are still firmly in tune with their roots. Meanwhile, ‘Breakup Song’ is a cheery, tongue-in-cheek track made for arm-swaying singalongs.

‘Sad’ feels like the end of summer, welcoming in the glorious golden chill of autumn. Given the brilliance of the trilogy so far, fans will undoubtedly leave this record hungry for more.