Review Summary: Madness.
New Found Glory are a band still trying to accomplish something, its just they're not sure what that is. Ever since their self-titled all the way back in the year 2000, they've leaned more to the side of settling for 'second best', never really reaching the fun and energy they all had in them. Although every band member was good at what they did, and could pump out energetic and catchy songs, the listener felt like it was band in an identity-crisis, not really knowing what they want to do next. However, with their new LP 'Resurrection', New Found Glory find their groove, tighten their musicianship, and create an album that is both appealing to old and new listeners, and, more importantly, is fun.
From the beginning of 'Resurrection', the listener realises that this is New Found Glory at possibly the best they've ever been. Album opener 'Selfless', with its distorted intro, bursts out of the gates, providing both a catchy and energetic start to the album. The memorable riff, the basic but interesting drum patters, and the tightness of the vocals brings not only the song together, but the whole album. Throughout, the guitars and bass are crisp and entertaining, the vocals are easy on the ears in both the tone and sound, along with the simple drum patterns adding to the whole album. However, all of this isn't possible without production from Paul Miner (Thrice, Atreyu). The sound is perfect and fits the genre, along with giving all band members an equal amount of exposure throughout. The lyrics, although childish at times, are still appealing and suit the band well.
As the album continues, not only does the quality stay high, but not a single song can be picked as 'lesser than the others'. The tracklist, consisting of a healthy thirteen songs, remains consistent throughout. From opener and lead single 'Selfless', to the follow-up self-titled track, along with the other single from the album, 'Ready & Willing', the record starts strong. But even as the album begins to take shape, more and more of the album becomes memorable. 'Degenerate' has both a catchy riff along with a great chorus. The bass line for the follow-up track, 'Angel', carries the song, and the track once again has great vocals as the song progresses. Closing song 'On My Own' provides possibly the best track on the album, ending the LP with an energetic bang.
Even with a 42-minute runtime, New Found Glory find their stride, and impress with their latest LP. Whether it be the catchy guitars, the pleasant vocals, or the beat kept with the bass and drums, the album restores the band with new found energy, resulting in an LP that could see them once again lead themselves to be at the top of the genre.
Positives
+ All instruments step up and remain consistent throughout
+ Vocals both pleasant and catchy
+ Production value is top-notch
+ Album stays amazing all the way throughout
Negatives
- Some iffy song-writing detracts very little
The Top Four
On My Own
Selfless
The Worst Person
Stories Of A Different Kind
