The Wonder Years has quickly climbed the rungs of the pop-punk scene. Weaving together lyrics filled with angst and an alternative sound that will have you head-banging, it's no surprise that their newest piece of work has been met with critical acclaim.
Released Sept. 4, 2015, "No Closer to Heaven" is the band's fifth attempt to stay ahead in the ranks. Though it does not boast anything entirely new and impressive, the album closely follows the genre the band has so amazingly renovated. The alternative music scene is forever changing, but The Wonder Years has managed to maintain quite a devoted fan base.
"A Song for Patsy Cline" and "Cardinals" are two of the opening songs on the album that showcase the sheer emotion that the group continuously puts into their music. Though they have a slow tempo, the heartfelt lyrics will grab any listener's attention and hold on to it. That's the key to many of the tracks on "No Closer to Heaven" — they are enthralling narratives.
Addressing his battle with depression, the recent loss of a close friend and the various struggles the band is facing, frontman Dan Campbell essentially uses this album as a muse. Being no stranger to often uncomfortable and heart-wrenching lyrics, The Wonder Years once again has given fans a close, personal view into their lives. This album is thought-provoking and sincere, and Campbell's lyrical wit shines through.
Alongside personal endeavors, some songs address topics that pertain to the world right now. "Stained Glass Ceilings," featuring Jason Butler from post-hardcore band letlive., tackles the major issue of systematic racism and how it affects our daily lives as a whole. "Cigarettes & Saints" pulls a Bernie Sanders, calling out the negativity surrounding large pharmaceutical companies and the greed that encompasses our nation.
These lyrical themes, accompanied with the band's already uniquely strong sound, make this album as flawless as their last. The Wonder Years has a way of making us laugh, making us cry and making us dance — "No Closer to Heaven" does all of that and more.