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.