Friday October 14, 2011

By Frances Roach

Eight years, several rumours and post-hiatus band formations later, the ultimate heroes of the pop punk genre are back, with much anticipation and a whole deal of expectation. After delays regarding its completion and a controversial postponement of their 2011 UK Summer Tour, ‘Neighborhoods’ is finally released upon the masses.

Opener ‘Ghost On The Dancefloor’ is instant reminiscence of the well-crafted and calculated Blink sound (in case we had ever forgotten over the years) with solid drumming from Mr. Barker and catchy pop-laddened bridge. Tom Delonge’s clear influence on the track suggests this could potentially end up becoming a Angels & Airwaves part 2 soundtrack, however moving into the second song, ‘Natives’, it appears that the rest of the album could well be a +44 vs Angels & Airwaves soundtrack.  ‘After Midnight’ provides underlying emotional tones showing their gradual developed serious side of the record. A fresh softer theme is consistent throughout the record, paying attention to detail rather than a fully fuelled fast-paced pop-punk infusion they helped to popularise; outstanding riffs are few and far between but this is made up for by the experience and technicality of the medolic compositions throughout.

Taken over vocals in ‘Hearts All Gone’, ‘MH: 4.18.2011’  and ‘Kaleidoscope’ is Mark Hoppus, with similarities to previous band +44 (alongside Blink drummer Travis Barker), whereas Angels & Airwaves inspired tracks ‘Snake Charmer’, ‘This Is Home’ and current single ‘Up All Night’ provide a more sonic sound to the tracklist, yet lacklustre ‘Love Is Dangerous’ is probably the main disappointment of the album.

With a staggering amount of expectation, Blink 182 have been able to create a beautifully crafted portfolio of recordings to add to their back catalogue. Many may have expected much more from eight years of near abandonment, many may still be left unsatisfied. However, the majority of fans are in it for the long haul and will be more than happy to have them back as the original three piece, picking up right where they left off.

3/5 

Download: Hearts All Gone, After Midnight, Up All Night

Interscope Records