Likes: Ghosts on the Dance Floor, Up All Night, Love is Dangerous, Even if She Falls
Overall: Interesting production/lyrics, a bit repetitive in places.
After 8 years, Blink 182 has returned with “Neighborhoods,” a more mature punk album vastly different in content from their previous work. The change is not a negative one, however, as the record has many strong points: solid vocals, emblematic lyrics and intriguing production. Most of the music is up-tempo, but has curiosity-sparking solemn and dark undertones further evoked by thoughtful and slightly sad lyrics. Fans who might be concerned about the style shift from Blink’s usual relaxed, comedic approach, will likely have their desires satisfied with songs like “Even If She Falls,” that are reminiscent of their older tunes (“What’s my Age Again?”). Despite these positive facets, there’s a weak point for every strong one. The metaphoric lyrics are sometimes so symbolic, they don’t seem to have a clear, cohesive point. Some of the song lyrics are like random phrase ramblings jumbled together. Also, there are too many instances where you hear the same four lyrical lines throughout (ex. “Wishing Well”), making you wonder if they ran out of ideas. Repetition is also seen in the musical arrangements, fortunately broken up by sudden, post-bridge deviations. There are downsides, but such isn’t potent enough to make the album inferior. Like Jay-z shows you can be can still do rap at 40, Blink proves you can do punk well into your 30’s. I think their fans will appreciate the project.