Looking back 10 years earlier, in 2014 Breaking Benjamin’s Ben Burnley announced a new rhythm guitarist to join the band named Keith Wallen. Proving to not only be one of the best additions to Breaking Benjamin, who were returning from a 4 year hiatus, Wallen has not only assisted in creating some great music with them, but he has also gained notoriety for his solo music as well. From Alternative Metal music with Breaking Benjamin to modern Alternative Rock as a solo artist, Wallen is blazing his own trail to the top of the modern heavy Rock music world. Releasing the EP Allies in 2014, Wallen’s debut full-length album This World or The Next arrived in 2021, but now in 2024 he returns with his sophomore album Infinity Now.
At this point a pretty accomplished musician, after working with the the band Cooper in the earlier 2000s, as well as being a vital part of Adelitas Way between 2009 to 2013, Wallen has also worked as a co-writer on songs for the likes of Saint Asonia, Fuel and We Came As Romans. Impressive, it all adds an interesting wrinkle to his story as he continues along with releasing solo material such as the songs heard on Infinity Now.
Arriving on May 3rd through Rise Records, not only does Wallen show off his chops as a songwriter and guitarist, but also as a vocalist. Possessing a unique voice, he immediately grabs you with, “I see infinity, will it ever be more than a dream,” in the opening track “Infinity.” Effectively creating a distinct feeling, Wallen’s voice and words have you longing and hoping for something more. From here, “Headspace Holiday” is another highly relatable song that possesses a message many can relate to in wanting a break from everything… even for a moment. Furthermore, the guitar breakdown is as powerful, as the lyrics are catchy. Overall, Wallen’s desire for ‘a headspace holiday’ lets you know that as humans we all struggle with ourselves and the constant overload from the noise around us.
There are also songs like the deep, heart-wrenching “Don’t Fall Asleep,” and the strong guitar led “Blackout.” The latter, a more edgy track, features Wallen’s more aggressive vocals which make for an unforgettable listen that you will want to dig into over and over again. With all of this and more, other standouts include album closer “Dear Father.” A song written after the loss of his own father, the emotion is amplified heavily by violins and acoustic guitars. However, once again it is the lyrics that hit heavily as Wallen confesses to still try and connect with his father no matter where he might be in the universe.
All in all, Infinity Now is a defining point in Keith Wallen’s career. Now over twenty years in, he has successfully made a name for himself, but with his unique voice and ability to write lyrics that connect with you, he shows that outside the confines of a band he is equally as intriguing. Keeping you interested and looking for more, Cryptic Rock gives Infinity Now 5 out of 5 stars.
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