Boys Like Girls – Crazy World LP
Review by Taylor Pittman
Let’s take a walk down memory lane back to 2006 when I first heard Boys Like Girls. I was on Myspace (this was the cool social networking platform before Facebook took over for all of you kiddos) and heard a song that exploded with a contagious beat alongside a unique voice from the lead singer. It was “Heels Over Head” from Boys Like Girls. Their self-titled album featured this song along with several others that put Boys Like Girls on the pop-punk map. Love Drunk followed in 2009, but didn’t skyrocket them into music stardom although their single of the same name still makes an appearance on the radio every month or so. The 2009 release seemed to lack in Boys Like Girls’ iconic sound that consisted of unique arrangements and solid lyrics responsible for putting them in the big leagues with names like All Time Low and Cartel. The band announced their hiatus in 2011 leaving fans unsure of the future of Boys Like Girls. Luckily, their time off resulted in a comeback as the guys have just released Crazy World.
Crazy World starts off with “The First Time,” a catchy jam oozing with nostalgia making it perfect to introduce the album after such a long break. “Life of the Party” comes next and combines everything from a beat based on handclaps to a bit of gospel vocals. Throw in some “na-na-na’s” and the song makes it impossible to not tap your foot or bob your head.
“Crazy World,” the title track, begins with whistling dominating over a simple guitar beat perfect for the background music of a Hollywood film about rainbows and butterflies. The song continually builds and becomes more complex with a heavier drum presence, but its overall simplicity gives the song a vibe that can only be described as lovely.
There is no doubt that Boys Like Girls can write ballads. “Be Your Everything” begins with a slow pace only to explode at the chorus with passion that will convince listeners that lead singer Martin Johnson means every word he says. “Stuck in the Middle” continues the mellow introductions followed by a chorus accompanied by a variety of instruments. However, Johnson’s vocals are what leave a lasting impression.
“Cheated” is just what it sounds like. Luckily, it doesn’t take the Taylor Swift route and talk about all of the pain and consequent revenge that comes with being cheated on. Johnson just makes an observation set to a pretty catchy arrangement. It gets the job done.
“Shoot” is a fusion of Boys Like Girls’ iconic sound and country music that is clearly an indicator of Johnson’s time in Nashville during the hiatus. “Leaving California” continues to prove the band’s talent in producing ballads. The piano sound and deep lyrics make it the most honest song on the record hands down. “Take Me Home” reminds me of the ridiculously contagious songs on their first record, but definitely conveys how the guys have transitioned from a pop-punk band to a group with a unique sound that cannot be limited to any one genre.
I like to think “Red Cup Hands Up Long Brown Hair” was produced amidst a huge dance party. It’s fun and instantly gets stuck in your head as Johnson sings about a girl and watching her “paint this town like a Vince van Gogh.” What a line.
“Hey You” closes the album on an incredibly emotional and honest note as the guys prove the album may be over, but their music making is not.
Like all good artists do, Boys Like Girls took time off to regroup and recharge so they could make a comeback worthy of both your time and your ears. It’s clear to see that they’re glad to be back with their fans. Johnson sings on the first song of the record, “It’s so good to see you, my old friend.” It’s good to see you too, Boys Like Girls.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Recommended Tracks: “Red Cup Hands Up Long Brown Hair” and “Leaving California”
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