Arizona rock band, The Maine, has finally evolved into a solid, genuinely unique set of musicians. The band’s previous album, Black and White, seems to have gone largely unnoticed. This may be due to the change in direction from the 2008 release of Can’t Stop Won’t Stop. The change, however, was certainly for the best. They have not only musically progressed, but also lyrically evolved (“Misery” is a perfect example of both lyrical and instrumental progression…I’ll save the joy of the interpretation for you the listener). The band has most certainly come back with a vengeance and provided the public with expert musicianship on their third studio release, Pioneer.
The album begins with a bang in the song “Identify”, discrediting the old cliché of “the good die young.” This song, along with “Some Days” bring the listener back to late 90’s and early 2000’s with a sound that follows the beats and rhythms of a solid Weezer track. My middle school self has officially fallen in love with the tracks that follow this familiar sound.
This is not only the sound that the band has produced however. They have managed to keep us “listening to rock & roll.” With songs such as “My Heroine” The Maine has managed to keep good old fashioned rock and roll alive. The sound is definitely reminiscent of their 2009 cover of “Pour Some Sugar on Me.” This is a distinct sound that only The Maine seems to be comfortable with.
All-in-all this album is unyielding work of art that has broken the radio based pop-punk mold that most people had placed them in. The lyrics are darker/more “real” (for the most part) and the musicianship is unique. Anyone who was longing for “CSWS” is looking in the wrong place. Evolution has occurred and there is no sign of decline in sight. It is most certainly an album worth listening to. I rate this highly within the genre!
I give this album a 9.5/10
Listen to - Identify
Some Days
My Heroine
Review by Tiger Shark
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