“Neighborhoods” is the pop-punk band’s first new material since 2003. With those eight years behind them, the trio has bounced back with some texture, building upon their simpler early days.
Frequent piano and synthesizer sounds make what was once rather earthy and rugged seem atmospheric at times. Travis Barker’s drum skills are as on point as ever, driving the band’s entire sound. Random, yet timely cymbal work takes over where the guitar and bass don’t have the maximum attack.
Tom DeLonge and Mark Hoppus stay in true form with heartbroken lyrics that seem as melancholy as they are appealing. The atmospheric overtones add to the downheartedness. The lyrics reflect the band’s age but could still be appealing to younger audiences.
Frequent random obscenities and a few fast tracks lighten the record up a bit.
“Natives” the 2nd track is a lively reverb-heavy tune complete with a catchy chorus that’s stuck in your head with only one listen. Lyrics like “so let me go, I’m never coming home,” drive home the sad factor of the record.
Toward the middle of the album, “Heart’s All Gone” picks the record up again with heavily distorted guitars and Hoppus’ low but genre-effective vocals.
Barker’s crisp percussion pounds the track along. An emotional buildup brings the song to a heavy, resounding final chorus.
Near the end of the album “MH 4.18.2011” proves a catchy and almost epic track.
“Hold on, the worst is yet to come,” Hoppus chants.
It seems a valid ending for a catchy, but somewhat downtrodden record.
Blink 182 are in full form again, with a sad twist. Yet the effort is a sadness you can definitely sing along to.
