SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: FALL OUT BOY – SO MUCH (FOR) STARDUST

Fall Out Boy
So Much (For) Stardust
Fueled by Ramen/Elektra/DCD2 Records

Emo founders Fall Out Boy are back with their eighth album So Much (for) Stardust after five years. Recalling the so unique Folie à Deux sound, the band released 13 songs that will mark another new era in their trajectory.

The whole record is characterized by a mixture of old vibes from 2000s pop punk, with alternative and electronic additions. Lead vocalist Patrick Stump’s classic high pitch voice merged with dynamic melodies have been a usual mold in Fall Out Boy records. This time is no exception. “Hold Me Like a Grudge” is particularly special for the fans. Besides having a repetitive but energetic guitar riff and a catchy chorus, the single’s video is the third in the trilogy of band’s music videos that began back in 2005. “Heartbreaks Feels So Good” is probably the song that certainly shows the new sound of the album. Shifting between drumming patterns, and following a steady pace, this track becomes a headbanging tune. “Flu Game” opens with guitar distortion and evolves rhythmically into a pop-ish song, with shades of alternative rock thanks to the persistent bass and the switch in tempos.

Partially, this record feels like a nostalgic trip to the 2000s emo scene. The origins of Fall Out Boy can be sensed throughout the songs. In addition, the iconic speeches of Wentz are also a nice reminder of their roots. Clearly, with this album they’ve gone back musically to their core, but also, they’ve created a fun experience to listen to.

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