Saved Rock and Roll?

Am I about to review the new Fall Out Boy record? Yes. Yes I am. 

Album: Save Rock and Roll

Band: Fall Out Boy

Label: Island Records

Producer: Butch Walker, Fall Out Boy

Release Date: 12 April 2013

I can't tell you how long I waited for some new Fall Out Boy material. That sounds pathetic, but ever since their major label debut From Under the Cork Tree, I have not been able to get enough. Save Rock and Roll has been a surprise on many fronts, most of all, in content. If you pick up this record expecting the punchy guitar and fast paced Fall Out Boy you will surely be disappointed. The band has embraced a wide range of musical styles into their music, with songs including string sections, keyboards and synthesizers, as well as a notable dubstep drop (the author of this blog does not condone listening to dubstep in any way). Hip Hop, R&B, and EDM influences are present throughout, adding to the band's already broad sounds.

Highlights: 

1. The Phoenix

There is something about statement of purpose songs at the beginning of albums that I love. "The Phoenix" should have been the lead single for the record. It is a right hook to the chin of all of Fall Out Boy's critics over the past eight years. The chorus references critics who are wearing the band's "vintage misery," and that it is time to grow up and accept that changes that come with growing. The song features a string section, which sounds a little too similar to German artist Peter Fox's "Alles Neu" to be original FOB, but you can judge that for yourself.

Peter Fox, "Alles Neu"

Fall Out Boy, "The Phoenix"

4. Where Did the Party Go

It is a rare thing for a rock band (some might dispute this term in this case) to put out a song that is a genuinely "danceable" party song. This song breaks the mold. Leading with a catchy up-tempo bass hook, driving drum line, and electric chorus, "Where Did The Party Go" is a powerhouse. Lyrically thoughtful, as all of their songs are, this song makes you think, as long as you can stop tapping your feet long enough to do it. 

8. Death Valley

Writing a song with a dubstep section is not what you would expect from a record called Save Rock and Roll, but as it should be clear by now, the name is tongue in cheek. Death Valley is the closest song on the record to vintage FOB. It is punchy and poppy until the dubstep section in the bridge. 

9. Young Volcanoes

If you didn't know you were listening to a Fall Out Boy record you might mistake "Young Volcanoes" for a Train song. Acoustic guitar and hand claps have never been the band's MO, but they make it work with a catchy pre-chorus that leads into a chorus clearly prepared with stadium shows in mind. Lyrically the song has some chuckle moments, while remaining introspective.

10. Rat a Tat (feat. Courtney Love)

There is no reason for Courtney Love to be in what is otherwise an excellent song. If you can tune out her stupid ramblings, this is one of the better songs on the record. Lyrics look at the difficulties we face in dealing with change, somehow, in a hopeful manner.

11. Save Rock and Roll (feat. Elton John)

As interesting as it is having Elton John on your record, he doesn't really fit with Fall Out Boy's vibe, or the vibe of the record. However, it is a great anthem to end the record.

The record suffers from its reliance on guest performers. In addition to Elton John and Courtney Love, Big Sean features on "The Mighty Fall" and Foxes provides vocals on "Just One Yesterday." Neither Big Sean nor Foxes add anything to these two tracks. They serve as distractions, as if the band felt they needed to add more performers just because they could. Simpler is most often better. 

Grade: A-/B+
Save Rock and Roll is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Four years' hiatus have not detracted from the band's sardonic wit; the title itself is beautifully tongue in cheek. Guest performers detract from the record, and of course any ensuing live performances. The record is a rarity for Fall Out Boy, back loaded rather than front loaded, and it closes with a punch, leaving the listener pensive and thoughtful. Highly recommended for listeners of all styles of music.