“Past Life Kennedy” is a slow-burning, moody alt-rock track that builds from a steady, droning atmosphere into a psych-rock breakdown followed by an explosive outro. From Collective Fear’s album Doomed to Repeat set to be released in January 2027, the song explores themes of life, death, and reincarnation through lyrics that question the idea of being doomed to repeat the past.
Based in Los Angeles, Collective Fear blends alternative, synthpop, post-punk, and shoegaze, pulling from a range of influences to create a sound that feels both atmospheric and hard-hitting. The song immediately throws the listener into an atmosphere of wonder, pairing the electric guitar with soft tones. It feels both grounding and suspenseful at the same time.
We are monuments, lives are permanent.
Tweaker with broken glass holds equivalence.
The hushed but prominent voice shines through the backing track, blending together in my headphones to create something incredible.
My favorite lyric, “Not a past life prodigy, still chasing prophecy,” sticks out to me, grabbing my attention the second it hits my ears. The song ends with a question followed by an explosive guitar and drum moment, wrapping up the song sonically and emotionally. I can imagine large crowds headbanging to this song in perfect unison.
This is a great song, and I can’t wait for the album! I think I’ve found my next alt-rock obsession. Take a listen to “Past Life Kennedy” below.
Written by Emily Stabell
