Panic! At the Disco fans rejoice: the Las Vegas originating pop-rock outfit have just released their first official single "Say Amen (Saturday Night)" from the band's sixth studio album "Pray For the Wicked".
The only, and remaining member of the band, Brendon Urie, posted a statement on the band's official Facebook page, welcoming in the new "era" of music. Announcing, not just the new single and accompanying music video, but a (fastly approaching) North America and Canadian tour as well!
But the main star of the announcement was obviously the new song: "Say Amen (Saturday Night)". With electronic samples and sharp percussion leading Urie's crooning verses and a triumphant horn-backed chorus, the song will be a certified banger among the band's growing fandom.
The music video for the single, on the other hand, is less suave and more sinister... but in the best way! The video depicts Urie as "a James Bond villain" who has stolen an ancient artifact and is being cornered in his house by ninjas. What follows is a three-minute bloodbath as the black-suit front man executes an army of henchmen in over the top, gory, and satisfying ways. From ceiling fans to exploding microwaves and an actual stick of dynamite, this music video may just be Panic!'s most action-packed and elaborate song to date!
The lyrics of the song see Urie reflecting on his current life situation, potentially alluding to himself continuing to be the only remaining member of the band: "Been traveling in packs that I can't carry anymore / Waiting for somebody else to carry me." The verses are decently written, not too much imagery going on.
But the chorus. Oh, sweet Lord, the chorus.
Backed by loud, boisterous, beautifully mixed horns, and melodic background vocals, Urie's voice soars and sails over the track. Showing off his incredible range as a singer. The final chorus also shows some more improvised vocals, finishing with a high A to B note, just in case the rest of the track hadn't blown your mind already.
Along with the new single and music video, Panic! also released another song of the album: "(F*** a) Silver Lining". A 70's roller rink-sounding throwback, again backed by a groovy horn section. While the melody and chorus are certified to get stuck in your head, the track does leave a lot to be desired, as half of it is the title repeated a couple of dozen times. Though, with the assured throwback aesthetic and appeal, it will most definitely satisfy any hardcore Panic! fans.
"Pray For the Wicked" will be released June 22. Tickets to their upcoming summer tour go on pre-sale March 30 at 10:30 AM local time. Until then... #prayforthewicked