Real Boy is the epitome of pop punk songwriting. More of a musical than a concept album, It blends Descendents esque down on myself punk with delicious indie rock elements. Max Bemis is one of the most enjoyable whiners I have ever heard in my life, his voice is perfect (for what it is) and his lyrics are delectable. This is a masterpiece, nuff said.
I had lost faith, faith in the genre that was once called pop punk. It slowly transcended downward in the past couple of years but then their was a light, a light known as Say Anything. Their album "...Is A Real Boy" is what this genre should be about. Elegant songwriting and more fun than you could ever imagine. Highlights include the gem making fun of music scenes known as "Admit It!!!" along with "Alive With The Glory of Love" and "Spider Song." My faith is rekindled with this album, and I couldn't be happier.
Bemis is a genius, and it's evident right from the off that ...Is A Real Boy is a classic album; his self-aware, introspective observations, the raw, dark/upbeat pop-punk backdrop, all contribute to a sound that never tires. It's always honest and sometimes a little bit scary, but mostly, Admit It!!! embodies everything awesome about Say Anything's second studio album; it's clever, maintains a punk edge, has hooks all over it and Bemis' vocal delivery adds that extra staying power that pop-punk often ignores.
In my opinion, Say Anything is one of the few bands in the "scene" that understand the art of album crafting. ...Is a Real Boy is a perfect album. Even it's flaws work to it's advantage. It really is a very special piece of work.
I fell in love with these guys with the first listen to this album. It's full of everything I love lyrically about music: truth and irony. They say it like it is and they make it sound good no matter how ugly the things they are saying. Great album and I would recommend everyone who likes this album to check out all there other stuff. There's 2 more albums released and a live album, but they are fairly rare to come by. Definately worth searching for!
