With Say Anything’s most recent release, “Anarchy, My Dear,” the indie-punk band changes up the pace from older compilations with more screaming vocals and ballads, but it may leave listeners craving the band’s past work.
Lead vocalist Max Bemis begins the album with “Burn a Miracle,” an upbeat track that starts by boldly screaming lyrics. However, pessimistic, the masochistic lyrics are juxtaposed against the loud yet buoyant backbeats throughout the song.
Unfortunately, Say Anything’s new album lacks quirkiness. Past singles “Wow, I Can Get Sexual Too” and “Hate Everyone” display Say Anything’s lyrical eccentricity. “Anarchy, My Dear” displays some of that indie idiosyncrasy but also embodies mainstream alternative bands like Mayday Parade and Cute Is What We Aim For.
“Anarchy, My Dear” allows the listener to see a new side of Say Anything’s repertoire. However, for loyal fans of the band, the new album may disappoint.