Reviewed on Oct 8, 2005 by MyHotelYear

If there’s one thing this summer has lacked, it’s been the release of a decent pop-punk record. There was fall out boy’s official release earlier this year ‘Take This To Your Grave’, which was a breath of fresh air and it certainly replenished my love for pop-punk. I’d sneakily downloaded the album in December though, so I was lacking the summery pop-punk regulars. Sure New Found Glory’s album was good, but it wasn’t a shade on their self titled release a couple of years back. I’m sure there were many more that I’ve forgotten about, but still, there hasn’t been much to remember.

So it’s been left to the formidable Drive-Thru Records, to release the pop-punk feel good hit of the summer, (a bit late with a release for mid-autumn, but I’m sure you understand what I’m trying to get at). They’ve left it to the California based band Home Grown. No, hold back those moans and groans. Although Kings of Pop was a bit dull and lacking a certain something, I can tell you this E.P, given the title “When It All Comes Down”, doesn’t.

The first track “Keep Your Distance” opens with a nice little technical intro before launching into full on sing along glory. Although the verses sound a little dull, it’s the chorus that brings this song together. Its soaring voices and beautiful melodies are complimented by a simple lead guitar part fluttering behind and when put together, will have you tapping your foot and nodding your head in no time. It’s by far my favourite on the E.P

The second track “Cross My Heart” is another great sing along song, with a chorus to die for. Although the lyrics seem a little childish, “I cross my heart and hope to die, stick every needle in these eyes”, the vocal melody lets you forget about it.

The third track “I Was Right About This” is again, another song with a beautifully crafted sing along chorus, blended together with a non-complex but beautiful sounding lead guitar part. Are you beginning to see a pattern? “Midnight City Sky” and “I Win, You Lose” follow the same trends as the songs before them.

The final track “What Would Love Do Now” is probably my second favourite, but still follows the same structure of the quiet verses, and a build up to a sing along chorus. All together this E.P is a real gem even if the voices sound a bit off key at times. It should be loved by pop-punk fans alike, but because of their somewhat “childish” reputation, will be passed over by many. If all you want is something to forget your troubles to, and have a great sing along, happy, dance to; this is your CD.

Related Links:

• www.homegrownonline.com
• www.drivethrurecords.com

1. Cross My Heart
2. I Was Right About This
3. Keep Your Distance
4. Midnight City Sky
5. I Win, You Lose
6. What Would Love Do Now?

Album Reviews

When It All Comes Down Oct 26, 2004