Alternative Rock from Groundstate

Since their formation in 2014, Cleveland-based outfit Groundstate, composed of brothers Conor Smith and Aidan Smith, has been on a mission to craft a unique blend of hard rock that pays homage to the heavy alternative rock sounds of past decades while infusing it with their distinctive modern touch. Their journey began with standout performances at the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame and the Tri-C Rock Off, where they swiftly gained a loyal local fanbase in Ohio.

Over the past eight years, Groundstate’s trajectory has seen them supporting major national acts and earning airplay on rock and alternative radio stations across the nation. Now, they unleash their sophomore album, The Things We Leave Unsaid, an 11 track record released through Auspicious Recordings and Wolf Entertainment. For this release, the band enlisted the production prowess of acclaimed rock producer Jim Wirt, known for his work with the likes of Incubus, Hoobastank and Centershift.

The journey through The Things We Leave Unsaid kicks off with the lead single, “Floating Away.” Here, the album bursts into action with a robust alternative rock sound. Brooding guitar twangs and a commanding drum beat pave the way for a crunching guitar riff, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of bands like Taproot. Conor’s dynamic vocals pierce through the arrangement, and the track culminates in a powerful crescendo, complete with a Tom Morello-esque scratched guitar solo.

“Perfect Timing” demonstrates Groundstate’s talent for emotionally charged songwriting, encased within a metal-infused sonic tapestry of chugging guitars and soaring vocals. The song is a visceral outlet for Aidan’s struggles with mental health, a therapeutic journey expressed through music. Another highlight track, “World Around You,” kicks off with a pulsating bass guitar intro, accompanied by the anticipation-building sound of a pick slide and the rising drums. The song swiftly transforms into an all-out assault of alternative rock, driven by high-octane riffs and thundering percussion.

The album’s finale, “Simple Head,” opens with the gritty fuzz of a moody guitar riff, over which Conor’s vocals hover, delivering profound lyrics that invite listeners into Groundstate’s world. This track traverses an array of stark moods and energies, ranging from soft guitar interludes to a rousing chorus fuelled by blistering rock energy. It serves as a sensational conclusion to the album, leaving a lasting mark on the listener.

Groundstate’s The Things We Leave Unsaid is a superb showcase of their ability to revive and reimagine the glory days of alternative rock. With this album, they not only pay homage to the genre’s roots but also breathe new life into it, making it relevant and captivating for contemporary audiences.

Commenting on the record, lead singer Conor Smith shares, “The Things We Leave Unsaid is a profound and sonically intense record that explores a variety of themes throughout its 11 song run, with topics ranging from addiction and relationships, to intrapersonal reflection of the past. This record captures an important point in time for us as a band, and I think that really translates into these songs.”

Listen to The Things We Leave Unsaid below