After watching the 1999 classic “American Pie”, I was in a state of nostalgia. The “American Pie” franchise (American Pie 4 hits theatres in April 2012 – it looks amazing) captured and mirrored the lives of all high school and college students. They were incredible films...minus the third instalment. Why am I talking about films? Well, in AM1, Blink 182 made a cameo during the live internet screening of Jim’s unfortunate “accident” with Nadia in his bedroom. Not only were they in the movie, but a lot of their music was featured in AP 1 & 2. Therefore, Blink 182 and AP is a perfect combo. After discovering “American Reunion”, it got me excited because it reminded me of high school and yes, I listened to Blink 182. Seeing as there will be a new film in the AP franchise, why not listen to Blink’s latest album ‘Neighborhoods’.
For some reason, this review had to happen. Oddly enough, this morning (December 14th) I downloaded Blink 182’s ‘Enema of the State’ and ‘Take Off Your Pants and Jacket’, released in 1999 and 2001. Both are classic albums and will definitely be reviewed in the coming weeks. But here we have Blink’s first album in eight long years. ‘Neighborhoods’ is the bands comeback album. After reuniting in 2009, Mark, Tom, and Travis all agreed to put effort into a new record. When I heard the news of their new album, I was sceptical because the band, both individually and collectively, were very different eight years ago. Every Blink 182 record had the youthful, rebellion, punk-kid, emotional vibe to them and that’s why they stand as a timeless collection of relatable recorded teenage angst. Much like Alice in Chains and Nirvana catered to the angry grunge fans of the early 90s, Blink 182 was the voice of teenagers and young adults who were marginalized in numerous social settings. They had a song for every social subculture; nerds, jocks, sluts, innocent choir girls, punkers, artsy students, and other “cool” kids.
Here on Angel & Airwaves’ new album...oh, shit. Sorry wrong band. Wait. Nope, it’s Blink 182. Okay, clearly ANA had an influence on a good portion of the sound on ‘Neighborhoods’. However, that is beside the point. I’m over it. All I can say is that it’s a different Blink album. Their sound is refined and polished, yet if you try real hard, you can still detect the class Blink power chord progression. Seeing as their 2003 self-titled record was thematically darker than its predecessors, this is the perfect follow-up. The band is older and it really shows. As a 24 year old, some of the lyrics are relatable. In my own subjective mind, the lyrics tell the classic tale of a quarter-life crisis. It’s easy to compare one’s life to the subject matter of ‘Enema of the State’ or ‘TOYPAJ’ (drinking, partying, getting laid, etc) but these lyrics challenge the listener. ‘Neighborhoods’ causes your imagination to acknowledge and reflect on your life in the now. Everyone’s neighbourhood (Canadian spelling) was once infested with kids. The kids became teenagers, then young adults, then finally, the memories of a past generation. Within those eras of your youth, multiple events occurred that helped you transform into whoever you are now. This may seem cheesy and bullshit but it’s true.
The song “Heart’s All Gone” sticks out like a sore thumb. It’s the most old-school sounding Blink song on the record. It has a fast drive and punk hook; a definite homage to the genre and their roots. As mentioned above, the sound has been really refined. ‘Neighborhoods’ uses a wide variety of guitar effects and new instrumentation. Once again, Tom’s newly default ANA writing style was utilized in Blink 182. Although much of the record sounds like bonus tracks of an ANA record, the songs are well structured and ambitious. *Sigh* I’d be lying if I said I thoroughly enjoy this record. I appreciate the musicianship and altered sound but how you can recreate “Mutt” or “Dammit”? Maybe that was a conscious decision from the band. There really isn’t a point in reproducing the same sound, especially after eight years of inactivity.
‘Neighborhoods’ is definitely the product of a band who has hit the peak of their creativity. The album itself may not reignite the nostalgic feeling of making-out with a chick at 16; however, hearing Mark and Tom sing in unison is all you need. Yes they’re still punk but the low baritone voice of Mark and high-tenor of Toms defines Blink 182’s sound. It may not appeal to all fans but it’s worth a listen.
Tracklisting
Tracklisting
1. Ghost On The Dance Floor
2. Natives
3. Up All Night*
4. After Midnight*
5. Snake Charmer*
6. Heart's All Gone*
7. Wishing Well*
8. Kaleidoscope
9. This is Home
10. MH 4.18.2011
11. Love Is Dangerous
12. Fighting The Gravity
13. Even If She Falls
Rating: 5.5/10
No comments:
Post a Comment