Review DAUGHTRY “Shock to the System (Part Two)” – EP

The foundation of Daughtry dates back to 2006, when Chris Daughtry started the band and released the self-titled debut album. Daughtry was successful right away, achieving four-times platinum status in the US.

In 2004, “Shock to the System (Part One)” hit the shelves, and it was only a matter of time before Part 2 was ready to be sent to record stores. Just one year later, Part 2 will be released, and “The Day I Die” provided a preview of the new songs. In April of this year, the lead single was unveiled. “The Day I Die” is an enjoyable rock song with some heavier outbursts. Overall, though, it’s a melodic and somewhat melancholic alternative rock song.

The EP is announced by a second song, “The Bottom.” It is a darker one, addressing the moment when you’re really down and your efforts to get back up. This topic also aligns with the lyrical approach of “Shock to the System.” It’s about denying obvious things and coming to terms with reality, which forces humans to deal with issues.

The EP begins with an intro called “Seeds,” a gloomy start to the record that leads to the dramatic opening of “Divided.” A calmer verse turns into a powerful chorus, though things never get too heavy. The song has a consistently dark mood, which is not surprising based on the overall theme.

The thumping “Terrified” is one of the heaviest parts of the release. With a pounding beat, the song is a confrontation with the inner beast. “Razor” combines a powerful chorus with fragile passages before the piano introduces “Antidote.” The closer, a ballad, feels like the calm after the emotional storm initiated by the previous tunes.

Daughtry’s new EP is perfectly timed for their tour with Alter Bridge and Sevendust in early 2026. The six songs, plus one intro, feature well-crafted modern rock with emotional depth. Even with a few edges that might be missing, these songs are touching and they benefit from a well-done production. Admirers of Daughtry and alternative rock will undoubtedly find much to appreciate in “Shock to the System (Part 2).”