Album Review: The Panic Years by Bradley Simpson
Written by: Keyali Mikaela
As someone who’s been a dedicated fan of Bradley Simpson for over 10 years, the anticipation for his solo work has been palpable. From the early days of The Vamps to now, Bradley has always been someone I’ve admired—not just for his vocal talent, but for his growth as an artist and his authenticity. So, when he announced his solo project in 2024, it felt like a dream come true. I had followed his journey closely, from his work in The Vamps to his collaborations with incredible songwriters and producers, and I couldn’t wait to hear what he would bring to the table as a solo artist.
The Panic Years is the culmination of that journey, and it’s been such a rewarding experience to hear Bradley step into his own as a storyteller and musician. Released on February 28, 2025, the album immediately struck a chord with me. Not only does it showcase his growth as an artist, but it also offers a glimpse into the man behind the microphone—his personal experiences, emotions, and the lessons learned over the past decade. As Bradley shared in our interview with him back in 2024, the writing process came about organically: “There were a few songs I started writing that weren’t right for the band, or for sending to other people. They were just too personal.” And you can feel the personal nature of this album in every track. It’s a body of work that truly reflects who Bradley is now, an artist fully in control of his narrative and his sound.
After spending a week with The Panic Years on repeat, I’m more convinced than ever that this album is a true testament to Bradley’s talent and vision. From the first notes of Cry At The Moon to the closing chords of The Panic Years, this record is a journey through the highs and lows of life, love, and growing up. It’s a beautiful reflection of where Bradley has been, where he’s going, and how far he’s come. So let’s dive into each track and explore how Bradley has poured his heart and soul into this album.
Track-by-Track Breakdown
Cry At The Moon
The album opens with a bold statement. Cry At The Moon is dark, brooding, and emotional. It’s a perfect introduction to the album’s more mature, indie-rock influenced sound. Bradley’s voice is as commanding as ever, and the track’s combination of Americana and psychedelia sets the tone for what’s to come. It’s clear right away that this is Bradley in his purest form, unfiltered and unafraid.Picasso
If there’s a song on this album that screams Bradley’s growth as a storyteller, it’s Picasso. The track fuses poetic lyricism with an ’80s-inspired synth sound. It’s a nod to both his past musical influences and his more experimental side. This track is playful yet profound, with Bradley’s smooth vocals wrapping around the lyricism in a way that shows just how much he’s learned about vulnerability. I can already hear this one becoming a fan favorite at live shows.Carpet Burn
Carpet Burn is the perfect blend of indie pop-rock, with infectious energy and anthemic instrumentation. The song's playful yet poignant lyrics are undeniably relatable, and the chorus has the kind of hook that makes you want to sing along at the top of your lungs. This is one of those tracks that perfectly captures Bradley’s ability to balance catchy melodies with emotional depth.Daisies
As soon as the first notes of Daisies hit, you know it’s going to be an uplifting anthem. It’s the kind of track you’ll want to blast in the car on a sunny day. But like much of the album, it’s not just surface-level fun—there’s a vulnerability hidden beneath the joy. The imagery of picking petals off flowers perfectly captures the feeling of uncertainty that often comes with love, making it both a sweet and introspective song.Holy Grail
Holy Grail is a standout on the album, stripping away the upbeat sound and giving us Bradley at his most vulnerable. The song is raw, minimal, and powerful in its simplicity. Bradley himself has said this was one of the hardest songs to finish, but the emotional payoff is undeniable. The delicate production and the restrained beauty of this track prove that sometimes, less truly is more.Getting Clear
Written during a moment of creative frustration in LA, Getting Clear is an anthem for anyone going through a period of change or uncertainty. It’s about finding your way after years of feeling lost, and Bradley’s vocals are more powerful than ever, with some incredible high notes that remind you just how versatile he is. This track is a personal favorite of mine—it’s a perfect blend of introspection and optimism.Not Us Anymore
The groove in Not Us Anymore is magnetic, and its honest lyrics about growing apart from someone you once knew so well hit hard. I can totally relate to this song, especially in those moments when it feels like two people have just drifted into completely different directions. The melancholy undertones of the track are balanced by its rhythmic energy, making it an emotional yet danceable experience.Almost
Almost is a deeply emotional track that really showcases Bradley’s ability to tell a heartbreaking story. The lyrics are beautifully written, and you can hear the pain in his voice as he recounts the emotions of a relationship that almost was. It’s the kind of song that will stay with you long after it ends, and it’s a perfect example of how Bradley’s songwriting has evolved over the years.Favourite Band
This is the track where Bradley fully embraces his swagger, and it’s everything I never knew I needed. Favourite Band is a playful, almost rebellious anthem that finds Bradley confidently declaring his place in the music world. With cheeky, confident lyrics and an infectious melody, this song has become one of my favorites on the album.Always Like This
The energy shifts once again with Always Like This, a rock-infused track with gritty guitars and angsty lyrics. It’s a perfect mix of the darker tones from the album’s opening tracks and the more experimental edge of later songs. The intensity of the song makes it stand out, and Bradley’s vocal delivery is perfectly matched to the raw, emotional energy of the track.The Band's Not Breaking Up
As a longtime fan of The Vamps, hearing The Band’s Not Breaking Up was a bittersweet moment. It’s Bradley’s way of reassuring fans while also embracing the changes in his life. The track’s reflective nature and its exploration of fear and change make it deeply personal. The lyrics “It’s a winter of change, and that’s so f**king scary” really hit me, and I appreciate the honesty in his delivery. This song is a love letter to his bandmates, his fans, and the journey they’ve all been on together.The Panic Years
As the title track, The Panic Years serves as the perfect album closer. It encapsulates the tumultuous experience of growing up and navigating the uncertain years of your twenties. With its cinematic build-up and powerful vocals, it’s an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt lost or unsure of the future. It’s a fitting end to an album that’s all about self-discovery, growth, and finding your way.
Conclusion
The Panic Years is everything I hoped it would be and more. Bradley Simpson has truly come into his own as a solo artist, and this album is a beautiful expression of his journey. It’s a perfect mix of raw emotion, catchy hooks, and poetic lyricism. As a long-time fan, it’s amazing to see how far he’s come, and I’m beyond excited to see where this new chapter takes him.
This album is a must-listen for anyone who has followed Bradley’s career from the beginning and for anyone looking for an honest, deeply personal musical experience. The Panic Years is a new era for Bradley Simpson, and I can’t wait to see where he goes from here.
