Ez Luscombe
It’s been a tumultuous ride for The Menzingers over the past few months, with interpersonal changes happening in the band itself as the Pennsylvania quartet navigates life as new fathers and husbands in a major touring band, as well as a devastating political landscape that might make for great punk lyricism but is harrowing to be caught in the crossfire of. The ninth studio album, Everything I Ever Saw, may be less abrasive musically, but it’s anything but boring.
The wistful nostalgia on lead single ‘Chance Encounters’ blends the classic sounds of triumphant heartland rock akin to Bruce Springsteen or maybe even The Killers, but the determination in frontman Greg Barnett’s delivery is nothing short of captivating and despite their vast catalog of influences, The Menzingers remain original due to their deeply personal lyricism, whereas single ‘Better Angels’ has their trademark sound of memorable, shout-along choruses with specifically reflective lyrics. This new and more obviously mellow side to their sound may alienate some fans due to Yip’s clean production very much falling in line with artists he has previously worked with, such as The Fray and Keane, but what The Menzingers lack in angst, they more than make up for with vivid imagery on the country-tinged hopelessness of ‘Gasoline & Matches’ and the clear parody of Steve Miller Band’s ‘The Joker’ on ‘The Fool’, which, despite the sarcastic lyrics and sardonic self-criticism which is what you’d come to expect from your average Menzingers track, the hooky chorus and use of horns in the middle eight section makes ‘The Fool’ a definite standout.
The final tracks ‘Parade Day’ and ‘Everything I Ever Saw’ explore the complicated personal feelings of grief, loss, and the urge to stay present whilst still recalling happy memories throughout the trials and tribulations of life. The latter arguably has the most anthemic and explosive chorus of the whole album and is reminiscent of fan favourites such as ‘I Don’t Wanna Be An Asshole Anymore’ and ‘After The Party’ and is surely set to be a great set list addition.
Despite Everything I Ever Saw being the band’s ninth studio album since their formation over twenty years ago, The Menzingers clearly have no intention of slowing down. With dual vocalists and guitarists Greg Barnett and Tom May doing what they do best; emotive lyrics, complex harmonies and honest storytelling. Everything I Ever Saw is a tragic exploration of the past, the present and the ever-changing uncertainty of the future, but the glimmers of hope and dynamic heartland rock influences add some desirable variety that make The Menzingers one of the most diverse voices in modern punk.