The New Classic – The New Classic
Review by Caroline Hall
If this album proves anything, it’s that The New Classic belong in the Warped Tour scene. Even though this is their debut album, it’s clear that they’re making music that Warped attendees would eat right up. It’s easy to tell what bands have influenced them just from a quick listen, and all of them are seasoned Warped veterans.
Tracks like “The Brightest Light,” “Reset,” “Let Me Disappear,” and “Phrases” have such heavy Warped tour-esque band influences that it’s hard not to imagine seeing these songs performed live outside on a tiny stage in 100 degree heat. “The Brightest Light” felt a lot like an early All Time Low song, which isn’t a bad thing, but the influence was almost too obvious. It was hard to see where The New Classic put themselves into this song. “Phrases” has more of an innovative feel with its chorus. Most of the song is reminiscent of early The Wonder Years but with a little more pop. It’s not a bad song; it’s just a little too familiar.
“Reset” is an interesting mix of genres. It feels a little pop punk at times but also generic pop rock during others. It’s somehow super catchy in the way that it’s easy to sing along to even though you’ve never heard it. There’s something familiar about it since it’s easy to sing along to without knowing the words, but it’s hard to place where that familiarity is coming from.
Arguably the best song on the album, “Where Did We Begin,” pops up towards the end of the track listing, giving the album a little lift before it finishes. It’s a musically and lyrically strong track that really showcases the band’s skill and just plain talent. The melodies are interesting yet they work, ultimately making the song the best on the album.
Although there are standouts throughout this self-titled debut, several of the songs were forgettable and just mediocre. They weren’t bad songs, just overdone a little. “Risky Business,” “I Choose You,” and “Keep That In Mind” are a few of the songs that seem like the band was either trying to hard to fit the Warped mold or not trying hard enough, it’s hard to tell.
Overall, The New Classic put out a solid debut album, showing the world that they’re musically talented and have something to offer in the music industry. Although a lot of this album sounds a little too similar and too generic, it’s not bad and just remember, this is only the beginning for them. With a little more experience and a few stylistic risks, I can see The New Classic seriously going places with the Warped Tour crowd.
Overall Rating: 3/5
Recommended Tracks: “Where Did We Begin” and “Reset”
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