Released:June 17, 2003
Rather than partake in the creative stagnation and
general apathy that is common of young bands, Brand
New took the ambitious and uncommon route on their
sophomore album "Deja Entendu", one in which they
would grow both musically and lyrically to create the
best album possible. Their efforts would pay off, for
Long Island's Brand New successfully meld pop, punk,
and emo to create a sound precisely their own, a style
that promises to support the unyielding buzz that has
surrounded this band since 2001's "Your Favorite
Weapon." From beginning to end, "Deja Entendu"
captivates the listener with carefully layered
guitars, perfectly complementary drumming, and lead
vocalist Jesse Lacey's powerful, honest lyrics.
The tone of "Deja Entendu" is set in the solemn
opener "Tautou," which fades into "Sic Transit
Gloria...Glory Fades," a stellar track with bass
driven verses and a thundering chorus made complete
with emocore screams. "I Will Play My Game Beneath
the Spin Light" tells of the pressures and loneliness
of the road while fourth track "Okay I Believe You,
But My Tommy Gun Don't" is destined to be quoted in
the instant messenger profiles of bitter sad kids
everywhere with lyrics like "I hope you come down with
something they can't diagnose/ And don't have the cure
for." Lacey is not known for holding back at all in
his lyrics.
First single "The Quiet Things That No One Ever
Knows" is vibrant and catchy with guitar slides and
dueling vocals. The sixth track "The Boy Who Blocked
His Own Shot" and "Me Vs. Maradona" are mellow,
well-crafted songs that showcase the band's ability to
layer vocals, drumming, and guitars in the most
effective and beautiful way. "Good To Know That If I
Ever Need Attention All I Have To Do Is Die" shows
contrast between the quiet, haunting verses and the
blaring chorus and arena-worthy breakdowns. On this
track, Brand New show an understanding of the fact
that when played skillfully, instruments can speak for
themselves, a concept that many bands, who instead
fill space with "na na na"'s or pointless repitition,
could take the time to learn. The bouncing riffs of
"Jaws Theme Swimming" and power and sincerity of
"Guernica" give the album the necessary alt-rock edge,
and the acoustic "Play Crack the Sky" brings "Deja
Entendu" to a fittingly casual and emotional closure.
"Deja Entendu," which means "heard it before" in
French, is ironically one of the least derivitive rock
albums released in recent years. Brand New did not
make an album to "break" their band, which is a common
mistake amongst young acts eager to join the world of
fame, riches, and groupies. The key to longevity is
to grow as a band, make the best music possible to
satisfy themselves and music fans, and not to force
premature mainstream success. Brand New has done
this, and as they continue to tour and produce albums,
they will find themselves with a successful and
well-earned career.
1. Tautou
For More Information:
Label: Triple Crown/Razor & Tie
Skip To Track Listing
2. Sic Transit Gloria...Glory Fades
3. I Will Play My Game Beneath The Spin Light
4. Okay I Believe You But My Tommy Gun Don't
5. The Quiet Things That No One Ever Knows
6. The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot
7. Jaws Theme Swimming
8. Me Vs. Maradona Vs. Elvis
9. Guernica
10. Good To Know That If I Ever Need Attention All I Have To Do Is Die
11. Play Crack The Sky
• Official Site: www.brandnewrock.com