Blink 182 - Blink 182
Vocals/Bass: Mark Hoppus
Vocals/Guitar: Tom Delonge
Drums: Travis Barker
It’s hard to believe that when this album was created, the Blink band members were only just speaking to each other. Perhaps that actually helped the writing and recording process. It’s also scary to think that this album almost never existed in the first place. But thank God it was. Yes Blink 182 have written many a crude joke song, usually about sick love stories between grandparents and antics with dogs (and Mexican pirates…).
Where has that Blink 182 gone? This album although isn’t new anymore, it feels brand new every time you listen to it. The sound is still unmistakeably Blink, but it’s a side we’ve never seen before, and a side we’ll never see again. Each song is a different chapter in a person’s life, a different journey, a different view of the same things.
How much Tom, Mark and Travis, our favourite Californian punk rockers have grown up since 2002’s “Take Off Your Pants And Jacket,” is startling, but very welcome, as musicians and also people. The music is different but comfortably familiar, the lyrics are heartfelt and sincere, and Robert Smith’s guest vocal on “All of This” just totally transforms the whole track into a different league. And of course, Robert Smith is the legend.
Obviously there is no Blink album without good, classic punk rock beats to make you want to dance around the room and sing along to the infectiously catchy lyrics. “Easy Target” and “Here’s Your Letter” and “Feeling This” are the ones there to watch out for. But the most impressive tracks are, indeed, the more sincere and emotional. “I Miss You,” has some of the most beautiful lyrics the band has ever written, while “I’m Lost Without You,” gives us not only a song more heartfelt than “I Miss You,” but also a Travis drum solo at the end. Pure genius.
Even if you’re not a fan of the band, this album will not only change your minds, but completely blow you away. It’s not just music, it’s a journey taking you through every emotion you're ever likely to experience. A simply unforgettable journey.
