Pissed Jeans, the Pennsylvania punk stalwarts, are back in action, delivering their latest auditory assault in the form of "Half Divorced." This album is a nostalgic trip down the gritty lanes of punk's heyday, cranking up the energy and serving listeners a hefty dose of sonic mayhem.
"Killing All the Wrong People" opens the album with a relentless surge of energy, reminding us why Pissed Jeans has become synonymous with unapologetic punk attitude. The band's signature aggression is present, but there's a newfound maturity that adds layers to their sonic palette.
A standout track, "Everywhere Is Bad," combines humor and social commentary in a way that only Pissed Jeans can. The infectious chorus and absurd lyrics make it a must-listen, showcasing the band's ability to inject fun into their sonic rebellion.
"Half Divorced" navigates the punk landscape with a sense of familiarity, leaning into the band's well-established sound. While some might yearn for more evolution, there's a comfort in the consistency of Pissed Jeans' sonic identity. It's like catching up with an old friend who still knows how to throw a raucous party.
The album's brevity, with seven tracks under the two-minute mark, adds to its charm (tracks like "Junktime"and the drink-raising "Moving on" ruin the curve going 5:32 and 4:28 respectively). Pissed Jeans doesn't waste time on unnecessary frills; they get in, deliver the sonic punches, and get out. This focused approach keeps the album dynamic and ensures that each track leaves an impact.
"Half Divorced" does offer glimpses of innovation, especially in tracks like "Junktime," where the band stretches their sonic muscles, showcasing a versatility that might surprise long-time fans. The moments of sonic experimentation contribute to the album's overall freshness.
In essence, "Half Divorced" earns a solid 7/10 on the punk-o-meter. Pissed Jeans doesn't reinvent their wheel, but they sure know how to make it spin with an infectious vibrancy. I'm not going to lie, when I first heard "Movin On" I was concerned that Pissed Jeans had phoned this one in; lazily creating an album that would've been the amazing IDLES album we've all been waiting for since Joy... dropped, but a very disappointing album for Pissed Jeans, but this one ends up hitting the mark. The extra context of the rest of the album, creating a complex person in whole, makes what earlier felt like a miss, a hit. Further, for fans of punk revival and those seeking an adrenaline-fueled journey into the raw spirit of rock and roll, this album is a worthy addition to your playlist.