All-American Rejects – ‘Move Along’

Move Along
Release Date: July 12, 2005
Interscope Records | buy now

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Oklahoma band, The All-American Rejects deliver ever a blend of pop/rock, pure talent and maturity on their sophomore record Move Along, the follow up to their now Platinum 2002 self-titled debut.

Produced by Howard Benson (Hoobastank, My Chemical Romance) this album displays a growth in the band as both musicians and songwriters. Each song tells a story in a musical form which makes them unique.

The first track and single, "Dirty Little Secret" is a potential hit all in it’s self. I always wonder when I hear music like this, ‘did they know they were writing a hit or does this just come naturally?’ The music, lyrics and concept of the song are well crafted and take pop/rock to a whole other level.

By the fourth song, the ‘Rejects’ slow it down on radio-friendly "It Ends Tonight," a passionate performance from lead singer/bassist Tyson Ritter, plays off of an easy listening track.

I found "Night Drive," to be one of those songs that is perfect to rock out to in your room, or car. It’s a catchy song, the guitar rifts are awesome and the hand-clap/stomp break during the middle of the song was a perfect addition. This track is a bit different from the All-American Reject music we’re use to, but I don’t have any complaints.

The entire record was written by Ritter and guitarist, Nick Wheeler and each song is different from the last, which is rare considering how many repetitive artist there are out right now. I love putting in CDs that I can listen to straight through without having to skip over the "not-so-good" tracks.

The final song on the album, "Can’t Take It" is filled with raw emotion and heartfelt lyrics. Ritter’s voice is vulnerable and sincere which makes for a dramatic ending to a storybook of an album.

Standout Tracks: "Dirty Little Secret", "Stab My Back", and "Straightjacket Feeling".

- Courtney Justice

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