The Rejects 'Move Along'

The All-American Rejects continue their hot pop-punk writing with Move Along, which debuted July 12. \nThe album, originally titled Change Your Mind, contains the Boxcar Racer-like pop-punk that the Rejects mastered for their first, self-titled album. More than any other band, though, the band from Oklahoma rings more of Rooney through an effect pedal with Move. \nLead singer Tyson Ritter, probably best know for his absurd vocal jumps on "Swing, Swing," continues to drive much of the band -- for better or for worse. It's for better on most tracks, but Move Along is missing its version of the instrument-driven "The Last Song."\nThe Rejects continue their vocal cascade style (where it appears Ritter sings backup vocals for himself) in the track "11:11 p.m." The title track has a great sing-along chorus (featuring a real choir) and, like much of the album, sticks to the power-chord-infused hit formula. Verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus... \nBut the monotony of formulaic songs works wells for the All-American Rejects. "It Ends Tonight" is a cool, pump-your-fist piano-rock song. Something about the song as a whole makes me think AAR might have a Something Corporate record or two in their iPods. \nWhile their last effort received critical praise that exceeded sales, I have to believe that this record will do just the opposite. \nAll in all, Move is an enjoyable record from front to back without exception. Every song moves smoothly and cleanly through desperate lyrics ironically piped over happy punk-rock chords. I can see myself dancing in my living room or singing in my shower to this record -- and enjoying it.\nBut no song reaches the level of "Swing, Swing" or "The Last Song," though some come close. If you loved their last effort you'll like this one. If you dig anything from the OC-style-indie rock to pop-punk you should check out this new AAR record.