Acts popular in the early 2000s often fall into the shadows of the music charts as they enter a liminal stage in which new albums become more formulaic with each consecutive record. But Jimmy Eat World defies this trend with its ninth studio album, Integrity Blues. The album displays the band’s fearlessness in experimentation with an improved sound as well as mature subject matter.
It would have been easy for Jimmy Eat World to play into the same tricks its fans love — the band popularized emo and helped set the standards for the genre. However, Integrity Blues is the antithesis of routine, as this record prides itself on themes of self-improvement and, most important of all, change. This push to deviate from the norm after eight studio albums is refreshing. But even more memorable is the band’s improved production on the record, as every track is a thoughtful effort in creating falsetto-driven choruses with infectious hooks.
“You With Me,” the album’s opener, has a sound that showcases lead singer Jim Adkins’ tender vocals and improved lyricism. He belts “What makes our love so hard to be?/ Is it you? Or is that you with me?” The track, concerned with confused relationships and life choices, is indicative of a record filled with introspection and vulnerability.
But the band still retains its signature feeling on Integrity Blues. Some classic-sounding songs exist on this release, such as “Sure and Certain” and “You Are Free,” the latter feeling like an anthem off Bleed American, the group’s fourth studio album released in 2001. The raw emotion in Adkins’ sweet vocals is echoed by the band’s enthusiastic and innovative melodies.
The album was produced by Justin Meldal-Johnsen, who has collaborated with indie acts such as M83, Tegan and Sara and The Naked and Famous. With that in mind, it is clear from the release that the band is shifting away from its history of comforting ballads to progressive pop songs.
“Pass The Baby,” a stand-out track that lauds carelessness, demonstrates the band’s effortless knack for bold guitar licks combined with staccato piano rhythm. The track is sung with an increasing fervor powered by a climactic, synth-dripped guitar riff. “Get Right” immediately follows as a heavy, dark track in which Adkins channels his frustration with stagnation.
The title track, which appreciates the fluidity of people in thought and actions, is unique to the band’s other albums, as an ensemble accompanies Adkins’ voice.
Integrity Blues renews the 23-year-old Jimmy Eat World’s relevancy by showcasing the band’s usual, beautifully pained vocals with a changed, yet still authentic atmosphere.
3.5/4 Shells
