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This was easily one of, if not THE, most anticipated album of 2007 for me. Against Me! are one of the most innovative and sincere bands out there today, and I was very interested to hear what they'd do on their major label debut. People can write as many magazine articles as they want to about this band (which all seem to be the same basic article just worded differently), but words won't mean anything if they don't have the songs to back it up. On the brightside, these songs are top notch numbers, even if the more rock style will have a few people scratching their heads in a confused enjoyment.
I was a bit disappointed with this at first listen, as the country/folk punk styling is all but gone, but I was in love with this album by second listen,and have no problem putting it on repeat for numerous spins. The songs are more rock oriented, while still having that Against Me! punk rock charm and Tom Gabel's infectious voice leading the charge. Each song is pretty damn good, with plenty of parts to sing along to. Even their two controversial songs, "Borne on the FM Waves of the Heart" (a duet with Tegan Quin) and "Animal," which are on the slower side, are really strong songs. They're not my favorites on the album, but I don't see myself ever skipping over them.
New Wave shouldn't alienate any old Against Me! fans. This is pretty much the direction that they were heading in with Searching for a Former Clarity. These songs are all really catchy and incredibly easy to enjoy. I, for one, fully support this growing direction, and I wouldn't be surprised if many other bands followed suit.
Written by: RF