Stephen Wicks makes his strongest claim to date with “The Doomsday Clock (85 Seconds To Midnight),” a daunting rock song that tackles some of the most potent threats to humanity right now.
The song is based on the famous Doomsday Clock of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, and is about the increasing threats of climate change, nuclear threat, AI and global instability. Wicks does not passively witness these issues, but makes them the basis for a musical horror show.
The music is a mixture of hard rock and vintage/alternative rock that is familiar and yet new at the same time. The song’s foundation is the heavy guitars and pounding drums, while the violin parts give the track a cinematic flair which heightens the impact of the song. The production is dark, but also grand in scope; the listener is never bored.
Wicks’ impassioned vocals help to build the atmosphere and keep the song focused. Each instrumental part seems to contribute to the sense that something significant is coming—anxiety manifested as the Doomsday Clock.
The Doomsday Clock (85 Seconds To Midnight) is unique in that it’s serious but hilarious social commentary wrapped in a hip hop rocker. It’s gripping, effective and not afraid to be bold.
This release is another testament to the ability of rock to address the uncomfortable truths while simultaneously providing an unforgettable listening experience, with Stephen Wicks doing just that.
