Album Reviews

Feature Album reviews

In this article, each person recommended one new album to each other for review. Ruby selected Rocket to Russia by the Ramones, while Tabitha chose Wowee Zowee by Pavement. Neither person had listened to the album recommended prior to this review.

Tabitha Born Tabitha Born

Editor-in-Chief Deputy A&E

Rocket to Russia” is an energetic combination of upbeat raw sarcasm and beautifully melancholic heartbreak. The harsh, brash, and often repetitive lyricism addresses many taboo topics, including, but not limited to, dysfunction of society, corruption of the upper class, superficiality, and consumerism.

The song which spoke most to me was “Here Today, Gone Tomorrow.” It’s matter-of-fact lyrics combined with beautiful melody and clear guitar stood out because of how much contrast it provides to the rest of the album.

Through sardonic humor and punk lyricism combined with alternative rock, 60s-esque surf rock,

Rocket to Russia by the Ramones

and pop, the Ramones truly are their own.

From upbeat and vibrant songs, like “Sheena is a Punk Rocker,” “We’re a Happy Family,” and “I Wanna Be Well,” the Ramones convey youthful angst and playful energy mixed up perfectly with astute observations and cultural commentary.

This mainstream honesty in lyricism set a new precedent for what types of boundary breaking and franked authenticity can (and should) hold a place in both rock and pop, with impacts lasting to this day.

Ruby Auckland

Reporter

The Ramones were one of the most influential bands of their time, coming out of Queens, New York in the early 1970s. Their bare bones style and moody lyrics caught the attention of the angsty youth.

Rocket to Russia holds a number of radio pop songs that you’ve probably heard in the background at parties or in movies, as well as more heavy and profound content.

One of the Ramones’ greatest and most incredible talents was their ability to take negative thoughts and express them in a way that seemed to be positive, almost hopeful.

The natural agony and tenderness that beamed throughout a few of the songs allowed me to feel a deeper understanding and appreciation for the Ramones.

The remaining songs are presented in a more cheerful and lighthearted manner from my observance, one of my favorites being “Do You Wanna Dance?”

If you are seeking a band or album to get you ampt up, Rocket to Russia by the Ramones may be the right fit for you.

Tabitha Born

Reporter

The first thing that caught my attention while re-listening to “Wowee Zowee” by Pavement was how effortlessly the band blends profound and honest lyricism with goofy, almost absurd humor.

This album is a personal favorite of mine. It’s intricate and playful instrumentals span aspects of many genres, from new wave, to alternative rock, punk, funk, and surf rock, they create a sound that can only be described as completely uniquely Pavement.

The variety in tempo, emotion, and song structure make this album a buffet for the mind; there is something here for everyone.

One of Pavement’s greatest strengths is the ability to convey passion and emotion through their art, without losing sight of greater perspective or the joys of playing

Wowee Zowee by Pavement

music.

Political and social awareness shine through in many of the songs, setting Pavement apart from many other bands of it’s time.

From healthcare insecurity, to wealth disparity, to consumerism and mega corporations, they give honest, yet artistic feedback on the state of the nation. They give off an air of nonchalance and playfulness, maintaining meaningful and relevant opinions while simultaneously letting their audience know they are, in fact, human too.

I have never before listened to a band that combines witty, poetic, entertaining, and raw lyrics with such dynamic and complex instrumentals. This album simply blows me away.

Ruby Auckland

Reporter

Pavement’s 1995 album, Wowee Zowee, is beyond any doubt, one of the most fascinating albums I’ve heard in a while. It’s a dynamic blend of alternative/indie rock, punk rock, and blues.

I admire how each song allowed me to experience an array of emotions, including despair and joy. It was refreshing to hear that there wasn’t a particular theme to the album, each song having its own unique characteristics. I noticed that not only emotion, but thought and compassion lingered within the lyrics. Their witty, musical humor stood out to me, as it placed me in a comfortable and familiar environment, alongside their loose and carefree touch.

It’s a true talent, having the ability to convey a sense of lighthearted and carefreeness, implying that even the most skilled musicians are human.

“AT&T” struck my attention as it transitions to multiple different tempos and frequently alternates between guitar riffs.

Stephen Malkmus’ lyrical stutters layered between objectless guitar licks is an aspect of the song that I truly can’t get over.

If you are looking for an inspiring, yet breezy album to sit back and mindlessly listen to, I highly recommend this album.