New Found Glory has been around for a while, but on its most recent release, “Resurrection”, the band seems younger than ever. Sticking to its original ‘90s-rock style, “Resurrection” is a continuous battle of guitar riffs, head banging and, of course, passionate chanting in the background.
Music this pumped can cause a few migraines, but throughout the stereotypical rock elements, New Found Glory keeps it interesting. Dramatic breaks in the music and punk-rock vocals take most of the spotlight in several of the songs. The opening song “Selfless” begins eerily with a buzzing electric guitar and “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” playing in the background. “Selfless” seemingly sets up “Resurrection” to be a pseudo-young, punk-themed romp.
Several other songs also begin with early twentieth century recordings. The non-musical elements give a post-apocalyptic feel to the entire album that clash in the best ways with the harmonizing vocals and endless pounding of the guitar. The old radio recordings and speeches set the mood for several songs like “Vicious Love,” title track “Resurrection” and “Selfless”.
“Resurrection” seems to tell a story. What that story might be is questionable. Songs about addicting relationships, self-empowerment and betrayal are sung with a type of optimism in the beginning of the album, but as the music develops, the melodies turn darker and induce a less forgiving sensation. Ballads end slowly with mournful guitar fade-outs before leading into repetitive song openings. Relief is given at last in a short-lived guitar solo in the song “Stubborn.”
Throughout the 13 tracks, the punk-rock theme stays strong while grinding guitar solos and chanting struggle to overpower the punk elements. “Resurrection” evolves and shifts perspective as it reaches its end, offering the best and worst of alt-rock.
Despite its long career, New Found Glory proves it’s not growing up anytime soon.
_MOVE gives “Resurrection” 3.5 out of 5 stars._