The new singles show some growth from Say Anything, for better or for worse.
After announcing a retirement in 2018, the release of new music as well as a reunion tour comes as somewhat of a surprise.
Naturally, more modern sounds are introduced, especially on “I, VIBRATOR” and “PSYCHE!,” which have elements of more recent releases by newer names in a frankly shallower alternative scene. Looking back on Say Anything’s individuality, this element of conformity is disappointing but unsurprising as they try to push their way back into pop-punk.
“I, VIBRATOR” could be analyzed on a deeper level if someone were really committed to finding meaning in it, but at face value, it’s raunchy and uncreative sonically. Frontman Max Bemis and wife, musician Sherri DuPree-Bemis of Eisley, collaborate on this track, as they have historically, but this only adds to the exhibitionistic vibe of the song and makes it feel that much more uncomfortable.
An argument could be made for the audience that Say Anything is trying to appeal to—most likely fans of more recently active pop-punk bands like Neck Deep and Real Friends—but the efforts feel exceptionally unnatural.
Of course, things will change over two decades of artistry, and musicians will always shift their focus, but one would usually hope that they stay true to the satirical commentary and witty lyricism that Say Anything was seemingly founded on, which is everything that they are lacking now. My hope for the rest of the album is that Bemis will, in some way, call back to the styles and conventions that created 2005’s …Is a Real Boy.
