Screeeeeeeeech...I turn my head in a futile attempt to see past the walls of my room, thinking I had just heard someone lock up their brakes. After a few moments I calm down, realizing that I had just put on the new Offspring album, Rise and Fall, Rage and Grace. So Dexter's voice sounds a bit like a car crash. That doesn't necessarily make the music bad. And it's never been more true than on their latest album, because it seems The Offspring took their time and made something varied, exciting, and catchy, instead of putting out a few good songs with filler all around 'em for once.
It's clear after listening to this record that The Offspring has grown up a bit. Better late than never, right? The Offspring has always been one of those bands that make fun, catchy songs that are mostly devoid of meaning or depth. That's why it was surprising and refreshing to hear some of the songs on this new album. They actually feel new; they feel like they've had time put into them; they sound different! Channeling greats like Bad Religion, The Living End, Green Day, and Suicidal Tendencies, this album runs amok with your ears. The Offspring's signature sound is present throughout the album with bigger, crashing drums (perhaps thanks to Atom Willard splitting for Angels and Airwaves...good riddance.), slower songs (even a bit 'o piano), and vocal melodies that have actually had time spent on them. Apparently "Hammerhead" is the first single, though the song I heard on the radio a few days ago was "You're Gonna Go Far, Kid," which is as good an Offspring song as any. All in all, this album feels abnormally inspired for a band that seems to usually record and release an album in a few weeks. It almost surprises me to say that the majority of the songs on this album sound noticeably different, and are each catchy and good in their own right. The songs seem to have more meaning than previous efforts, and it's reflected in their quality. There are, at most, 2 or 3 throwaway songs. Enjoyable album.
5/7
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