TAKING BACK SUNDAY - 152

23 Nov

Written by: Darcy Moore - Sense Music Media | Thursday 23rd November 2023

Album Review

When I was 16, I worked at McDonalds. I had a huge schoolboy crush on a co-worker. She was a real ‘EMO’ girl. It was a friendly flirtation and the kind of a scenario you see in all aptly suited genre music videos. One day she gave me a handful of totally legally owned CDs to introduce me to ‘EMO’. A long list of the best of 2005, teenage angst red carpet. Within the mishmash, ‘who’s who’ of all your “It’s not a phase, mum!” bands, fell out a cd by a band called ‘Taking Back Sunday’.

Cut to what feels like a million years later, TBS have had a long career solidifying their hold in the collective mindset of emo royalty. And just now they have dropped their 8th studio album ‘152’, with what might be their best yet. Easily swaying between the lines of their recognisable style, and a more mature rock sound.

With Tushar Apte's expert production, a talent unearthed through a collaboration with renowned DJ Steve Aoki, and skillful mixing by Neal Avron (noted for his contributions to Twenty One Pilots and Bleachers), 152 presents ten tracks showcasing raw vulnerability and a renewed sense of purpose. These songs emerged from the band's introspection during an extended break, characterized by the uncertainty prevailing in the world and the music industry.

The album kicks off with a bang in "Amphetamine Smiles," a surprising choice for an opener given its anthemic vibes, usually reserved for grand finales. Yet, this stripped-back gem sets the stage for the wild ride ahead, charting its own course amid the album's diverse offerings. Next up is the rocking anthem "S’old," diving deep into the struggles of adulting with beefed-up drums and powerhouse vocals from lead singer Adam Lazzara. Then comes "The One,”, starting with raw verses propelled by a thumping bass drum. Its gorgeous and weighty chorus weaves tales of love and brotherhood, making it a standout gem in the album's treasure trove.

“I am the only one who knows you” holds halfway-point perfect. It brings in a heavy hit chorus that will have people singing at home and at their shows.

After this song, the album doesn’t dissolve as some albums might. In fact it keeps us further interested. Encouraging us all to be singing passionately along to lyrics we don’t even fully know yet. The drums, the guitars, bass and melodies wrap us up, and makes us feel years younger.

The Verdict

‘152’ is an album that will roll in original Taking Back Sunday fans, and rope in new ones. Filled with crash-cut emo tracks, and ballads. The album is there for everyone.