Though it’s the longest track on the album, it doesn’t drag at all and sets the tone perfectly for what’s to come. Particularly with the line “tell your new friends that they don’t know you like I do,” the emotion this group is capable of really shines through. The lyrics in the verses and bridge are somewhat reminiscent of the band’s debut, while the chorus could have easily fit in as a highlight on their sophomore release. Lead single “Oh Well, Oh Well” brings together everything that’s great about Mayday Parade, with strong vocals from Derek Sanders over a soft piano intro before guitars and drums kick in to take the song to a completely different level.

With their self-titled, Mayday Parade has written the sort of album everyone knew they were capable of, but was unsure they’d deliver. From beginning to end, Mayday Parade has top-notch guitar parts, powerful drums, and the same sort of honest and emotional lyrics and melodies that set their debut apart. If only I could have predicted their recent return to form. While A Lesson In Romantics was damn near perfection, Anywhere But Here, while still good, seemed to miss its mark.

Out of all of the albums that were released October 4th, this was the one I was least sure about.

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