New Found Glory — Catalyst

Catalyst

Drive-Thru/Geffen

Keith Carman (CHARTattack)

06/08/2004 12:18pm

People have prophesized the death of pop-punk for years, but the balloon continues to grow larger with no signs of popping. New Found Glory’s latest blast of hot air, Catalyst, is the band’s most depressing work to date. The band mostly opts out of their upbeat bounce in favour of melancholy melodies and a sense of "lost, frustrated adolescence." The end result, a slightly faster, more believable Simple Plan style delivery that’s almost too "serious" for a band like this. Too bad it works so frustratingly well. Plenty of energy, passion and radio-friendliness ensure this release will stay afloat for quite a few months.