Let’s put it this way: if you’re looking for a band that is willing to tell it like it is, look no further than The Wonder Years. In particular, look no further than “The Greatest Generation”, the Philadelphia, PA six-piece’s tightest-sounding and most mature release to date. Quite possibly, this is the best record they’ve put out so far.
The album pulsates through thirteen tracks. Some will make you want to open up the pit (“Teenage Parents”, A Raindance In Traffic”), some will make you want to slow down and reflect on those moments in life that pose a quandary (“The Devil In My Bloodstream”, “Madelyn”), and some are meant to be screamed until your vocal cords are hoarse with all of your best friends surrounding you. Regardless, the outcome is never disappointing.
One of my favorite things about The Wonder Years is the fact that they’re lyrics are so personal. Dan “Soupy” Campbell’s lyrics are very specific in what they are about, yet they are written and performed in such a way that anyone can connect with them. This lyrical style has been present in their work since the band’s debut album “The Upsides”, and it was an element that has made them stand out to me throughout the years.
The album closes with the finale “I Just Want To Sell Out My Funeral”, a track seemingly about never wanting to disappoint those around you, maybe even feeling a bit disappointed with yourself. It’s a song that everyone can relate to at one point or another in his or her life, and it’s truly the perfect closer to this fantastic trilogy of what one could deem as “powerful, musical journal entries”. Outstanding job, guys.
Label: Hopeless Records
