Abbey’s Choice:

All Time Low’s “Future Hearts”

Kicking off their newest album, “Future Hearts” with a banging intro called “Satellite,” it’s evident that pop–punk band All Time Low is peaking at an all time high within their musical career. Featuring a wild sense of rhythmic composition, “Future Hearts” builds a relentless sense of anticipation and electricity throughout the album from beginning to end. My personal favorite is an intense anthem called “Tidal Waves,” which focuses on the heart–wrenching lyrical harmonies between lead vocalist Alex Gaskarth of All Time Low and  featured singer Mark Hoppus of Blink 182. The album’s infamous acoustic track, “Missing You” is another hit that tugs at listeners’ heart strings in a ballad of pure emotion. Ultimately, All Time Low had one clear goal in mind with “Future Hearts,” to make music they love for the people they love— and clearly, they’ve done just that.

Abbey’s Rating: 5/5 stars

What Ana said:

With the release of their sixth studio album, “Future Hearts,” All Time Low seems to have created one of the most defining albums in the band’s career. Reaching the top of the Billboard charts, “Future Hearts” continues to please audiences by sticking to their typical pop–punk sound. Lyrics such as, “Pull me out of this sinking town, I’m dying to live, something’s gotta give,” featured in the track “Something’s Gotta Give,” brings listeners to fully grasp the emotions being expressed by lead singer Alex Gaskarth. During one track, “Missing You,” the band shifts toward a slower tempo that creates a soft and calming mood. All Time Low has created their mark in the world of pop–punk. They evolved from a generic sounding band to one that has its own “oomph.” After listening to “Future Hearts,” hearing All Time Low’s future albums is something that I’m looking forward to.

Ana’s Rating: 3/5

Ana’s Choice:

Blues Traveler’s “Blow Up the Moon”

“Blow Up The Moon” by Blues Traveler features several guest appearances including the Plain White T’s and 3OH!3, adding a refreshing contribution. Blues Traveler surprised listeners primarily because they seemed to be toning down their wild side as seen in their old albums such as “Truth Be Told” which was released back in 2003. But despite this, Blues Traveler refuse to limit their spirits. “Blow up the Moon” uses tracks such as “Nikkia’s Prom,” to introduce listeners to a more pop–rock sound  instead of their typical groove. Unfortunately, change isn’t always a good thing—especially when you bite off more than you can chew. “Blow Up The Moon” gave the band the opportunity to go out with a bang, but instead they fell flat.

Ana’s Rating: 2/5 stars

What Abbey said:

With the release of their twelfth studio album, “Blow Up the Moon,” Blues Traveler seems to be traveling upon a rocky journey of recreating blues rock. Throughout the album, there is a static-like energy of reggae and dubstep added by bands including Dirty Heads and 3OH!3. From the pop-rock influence of Hanson in “Top of the World” to the country infusion by Thompson Square in “Matador,” there is a broad range of rhythms and sounds that became a bit like a conglomeration of noise instead of rhythm. While some of the new vibes work out well, some still fall flat. Overall, while there are a few favorable tracks on the album, too often, Blues Traveler songs sound like cursory efforts to land radio hits instead of honest collaborations that work for something more meaningful.

Abbey’s Rating: 2/5 stars