Comic Sans: ‘Todas Las Cosas Que Nos Salieron Mal’ – Review

COMIC SANS has released their latest album, Todas Las Cosas Que Nos Salieron Mal, a project that marks a deliberate shift in their musical identity—one that band members describe as more compact, melodic, and self-assured than their previous work. The album, which blends indie rock with Latin influences, has already sparked conversations among fans and critics about the band’s artistic growth and the themes of failure and resilience woven into its lyrics. According to interviews with the band’s lead vocalist, published in Billboard, the title translates to “All the Things That Went Wrong With Us,” reflecting a raw and introspective approach to songwriting.

Released on June 23, 2024, Todas Las Cosas Que Nos Salieron Mal arrives after a three-year hiatus for the band, during which they reworked their sound and expanded their creative team. The album’s lead single, “No Hay Volver Atrás” (“There’s No Going Back”), has already garnered over 2 million streams on Spotify, signaling a strong fan reception. Critics, including those from Pitchfork, have praised its tighter production and emotional depth, noting that it represents a maturation in the band’s career.

The album’s production was handled by a mix of veteran engineers and emerging Latin American producers, a collaboration that has been credited with giving the record its distinctive warmth and rhythmic precision. In a statement to NPR, guitarist Javier Rojas explained, “We wanted to strip away the excess and focus on the core emotions. This album is about acknowledging the mistakes and still moving forward.” The band’s decision to record in both English and Spanish—with bilingual lyrics in several tracks—has also been highlighted as a bold step in their artistic evolution.

Why This Album Marks a Turning Point for COMIC SANS

COMIC SANS, originally formed in Mexico City in 2012, rose to prominence in the early 2020s with their debut album, Siempre Hay Una Primera Vez (“There’s Always a First Time”). That project was characterized by its raw energy and experimental approach, but it also faced criticism for its uneven production quality. Todas Las Cosas Que Nos Salieron Mal, by contrast, has been universally praised for its polished yet intimate sound.

Industry analysts, such as those at Music Business Worldwide, point to the album’s shorter runtime—just under 40 minutes—as a deliberate choice to maintain focus. “They’ve learned to edit themselves,” said one producer involved in the sessions. “This isn’t just about quantity; it’s about quality and impact.” The band’s decision to limit the album to 10 tracks, down from the 14 on their previous release, has been seen as a strategic move to deepen the listener’s connection to each song.

Musically, the album draws from COMIC SANS’ signature indie rock roots while incorporating elements of cumbia, bolero, and even electronic beats. Tracks like “El Último Adiós” (“The Final Goodbye”) and “Aquí Estamos” (“Here We Are”) blend acoustic guitars with synthesized textures, creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. According to a review in The Guardian, the album’s production “feels like a conversation between the band’s past and present, with each track offering a new perspective on their journey.”

Fan Reactions and Early Critical Consensus

Social media has been abuzz with reactions to the album’s release. On Twitter, fans have praised its emotional resonance, with one user writing, “This album hits different. It’s like they’ve finally found their voice.” Meanwhile, critics have noted the band’s growth in songwriting, particularly in their ability to balance vulnerability with strength. Rolling Stone called it “a bold reinvention,” while Vice described it as “a masterclass in minimalism and emotional honesty.”

One standout moment from the album’s rollout was the band’s surprise performance at Los Angeles’ Shrine Auditorium on June 22, 2024, just a day before the album’s release. The sold-out show, which was streamed live on YouTube, featured a stripped-down setlist that included early versions of tracks from the new album. According to Consequence of Sound, the performance “felt like a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the album’s soul.” The band’s decision to perform acoustically for much of the show underscored the album’s intimate, confessional tone.

What’s Next for COMIC SANS?

With Todas Las Cosas Que Nos Salieron Mal now available on all major streaming platforms, COMIC SANS is set to embark on a global tour beginning in September 2024. The tour will kick off in Mexico City before moving to key markets in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. According to a statement from the band’s management, “This album is just the beginning of a new chapter. We’re excited to bring this music to fans around the world and see how it resonates with them.”

In addition to live performances, the band has hinted at potential collaborations with other Latin American artists, though no official announcements have been made. Fans are also eagerly awaiting a potential music video for the album’s lead single, “No Hay Volver Atrás,” which could drop as early as July 2024. The band’s social media channels have already begun teasing behind-the-scenes content, including studio footage and rehearsal clips.

For now, Todas Las Cosas Que Nos Salieron Mal stands as a testament to COMIC SANS’ ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. Whether this marks the beginning of a new era for the band remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: their music has never sounded more confident.

Key Takeaways

• Album Title: Todas Las Cosas Que Nos Salieron Mal (“All the Things That Went Wrong With Us”) – a reflection of the band’s introspective themes.
• Release Date: June 23, 2024, following a three-year hiatus.
• Musical Style: A blend of indie rock, Latin influences (cumbia, bolero), and electronic elements, with a focus on tighter production.
• Fan and Critical Reception: Praised for its emotional depth, maturity, and polished sound, with over 2 million streams for the lead single.
• Upcoming Tour: Begins in September 2024, starting in Mexico City and expanding globally.
• Potential Collaborations: Hints at future projects with other Latin American artists, though no official announcements yet.

The next confirmed checkpoint for COMIC SANS is their upcoming tour, with the first official show scheduled for September 5, 2024, at Auditorio Nacional in Mexico City. Fans are encouraged to follow the band’s official channels for updates on tour dates, potential collaborations, and new music. Have you listened to Todas Las Cosas Que Nos Salieron Mal yet? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag us on social media.