genres: pop-punk + alternative
I wasn’t really in a pop-punk mood for most of last year, which is a shame, because it’s probably one of the strongest years for the genre in quite some time. Although there’s quite a few worth checking out (in case I don’t get to writing them all up, some highlights include: FELICITY, Super American, Youth Fountain, Driveways, Bearings, Seaway, and of course Waterparks), Those Without have been the biggest revelation for me. Most immediately recalling The Peace And The Panic era Neck Deep, Bittersweet merges high energy punk with alt-rock sensibilities and top notch song writing. It’s incredible to see a band on their debut album have this level of poise both musically and lyrically. I love the variety that’s packed into this album, from the straightforward pop-punk of “Pink Alligator” to dance-y “Oblivious” to the total post-hardcore of “Under The Weather”. Again, it speaks to the band’s talent at every position that all of the styles sound natural and even coherent in the scope of the album. Vocally, it’s one of the most impressive performances in recent genre memory, effortlessly hitting pop-punk styles, some surprisingly soulful melodies in the slower moments, and perfectly nailing the screams at the heavy moments on “Good Thyme” and “Under The Weather”. While there’s no one revolutionary contribution this album makes, it’s one of the most complete and delightful recent genre releases that should have significant staying power.
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