All Distortions Are Intentional - Neck Deep (2020)

⭐ 9.5/10

(Originally written by niklasj08)

One of my favourite albums of all time. I don't think this is a hot take (?) but this is easily Neck Deep's best output in my opinion. An absolute triumph that blends the best aspects of the modern pop punk scene with inspirations from the golden age. Considered a concept album by the band, the tracks are loosely linked thematically, yet avoid letting themselves get bogged down by a detailed narrative. While the typical stereotypes of pop punk are very much present, the lyrics remain fun and hopeful, ensuring that the project does not get bogged down in self-pity or moodiness.

Musically, ADAI has a great range between fast paced tracks with breakdowns that would be at home in a Tony Hawk game and more laid back and earnest numbers that really balance out the pacing. Ben Barlow, while a decent vocalist on previous albums, really hits his stride here, and this is definitely his strongest performance. The album sequencing is also almost perfect, although my one critique would be that I don't love Pushing Daisies as the closer, its a fine track, but I think it may be the weakest on the album, and having it wrap up the show wouldn't have been my pick. However, this is a complete nitpick, and it takes very little away from my overall enjoyment of these tracks.

I feel like Neck Deep has upped their game with every new entry in their discography, and I cannot wait to see what they do next. I completely adore this album, and I feel like it is a shining example to all that pop punk is absolutely not dead.

Stand out tracks: Sonderland, Fall, Telling Stories, Little Dove