I've recently started listening to more hardcore/punk/etc bands, like Joyce Manor and Desaparecidos and Touche Amore. I just revisited Brand New and their record "Your Favorite Weapon". I have it on vinyl and have always loved the band, but I forgot exactly how much I missed them.
It's easily one of the best "harder-ish" rock albums of all time; Jesse Lacey is a lyrical god, it's angsty and brilliant musically. It's a gorgeous album that tells a beautiful story. "Jude Law and a Semester Abroad" is one of those songs that as soon as the chorus hits, you feel the urge to scream it at the top of your lungs- "TELL ALL THE ENGLISH BOYS YOU MEET ABOUT THE AMERICAN BOY BACK IN THE STATES". It's so intense and punchy and emotional. Similarly with old Taking Back Sunday and The Sex Pistols, you keep on the edge of your seat because it's crazy to think about how every instrument keeps up with one another.
"Mixtape" became a new favourite on my most recent listen because of the line, "and I'm sick of your tattoos and the way you always criticise The Smiths and Morrissey". It's so flawless and really stands out on the album because it's a bit softer, if you can even call it that. Lacey's voice is poignant and powerful, and you can feel what he's dealing with which makes it really hit home.
"Failure By Design" is one of their most iconic tunes because everyone seems to know the lyric. "I'm another day late and one year older; it's failure by design". The drums and bass in this song are so interwoven and it feels so natural and I can't get enough of it. The partial group vocals make this tune probably my favourite on the record, though I could barely put one song over any other.
This album is full of teenage feelings that you can't help but revisit intensely and immediately when you hear it. Breakup songs, f-u tunes, and "I'm fine leave me alone" jams perfectly placed and intelligently ordered, Brand New's masterpiece deserves a listen by old and new fans, and even those who haven't heard.
Brand New's words are sure to be your new favourite weapon.