The Panic Years

the take

ALT ROCK/POP HEAVEN! I am so glad this app finally lets you review albums just so I can review this album on a whole new platform. Simpson is a lot of things, but untalented is not one of them. From the opening strum of that electric guitar to the closing scream, this album is perfect. Simpson, a boybander, had so many layers to unwind in an album that has over ten years of stories to tell. Each one may be simple, but the grit in his rasp to the scratchy guitar riffs bring out a feeling like no other. If I could equate this album to a person, I’d say it reminds me of Dog the Bounty Hunter. Just a man’s man, but somehow complex in ways I don’t really want to understand. Do I think someone with an undiagnosed mental health problem created some of these insane backdrops…yes, but again I’m not mad at all. If you aren’t going to take my word for it, just force yourself to listen to three of these songs. ‘Daisies’ to ease you into what Simpson is capable of on a fun, lighthearted track. Then try out ‘Picasso’ to get a little more edge. (“Trying out some blue for the Teen Vogue party” vibes for sure). And then rip it with ‘Getting Clear.’ That song just absolutely fucks. From the high notes to the guitar shreds, a perfect rock anthem. But the greatest song on the album, which I want to hide for myself is ‘Not Us Anymore.’ Just the perfect blend of everything good in life, telling such an awful story of losing the love you once had. Best tracks: Not Us Anymore, Daisies, Picasso, Carpet Burn, Getting Clear, The Band’s Not Breaking Up