ALBUM REVIEW: BLINK-182'S 'ONE MORE TIME...': A NOSTALGIC EXPLORATION OF AGING

BY: JESSE ZAPATERO

Blink-182's latest album, "ONE MORE TIME...," marks the return of the iconic trio, Tom DeLonge, Mark Hoppus, and Travis Barker. It's a record that encapsulates the band's journey from youth to middle age, and it's a mixed bag of nostalgia and attempts at emotional depth.

The album opens with "Anthem Part 3," a clear callback to their earlier work, but it struggles to capture the same raw energy and humor that defined their earlier hits. The nostalgia here is almost too on the nose, making it feel like an attempt to recapture the past rather than moving forward.

Travis Barker's influence on the album is evident in the production, with drum fills that sometimes feel overwhelming. "Dance With Me" is a clear example of Barker's signature drumming style, and while it's energetic, it leans heavily on the Machine Gun Kelly-inspired pop-punk sound, which might not resonate with long-time fans.

The album's use of multiple songwriters and references to their own discography can make it feel disjointed. Songs like "Terrified" and "You Don't Know What You've Got" borrow heavily from their past work, creating a sense of déjà vu. This reliance on their own material and inspirations from side projects can feel somewhat unoriginal.

"One More Time," a ballad that addresses Hoppus' cancer battle and Barker's plane crash, tries to convey deep emotions but ends up feeling somewhat superficial. It's a touching sentiment wrapped in generic balladry, missing the opportunity to truly connect with the listener.

Occasionally, the album manages to capture the essence of Blink-182's classic sound. "Blink Wave" stands out as a return to their new wave influences and features a glimmering synth and a bassline that works surprisingly well. It's a glimpse of what the band can still achieve when they find the right balance.

Overall, "ONE MORE TIME..." is an album that struggles to find its identity. It oscillates between nostalgia and a desire for emotional depth but doesn't fully commit to either. While it has moments of charm and energy, it's also weighed down by self-referential lyrics and a lack of innovation. Blink-182 is a band that's trying to find eternal life in a state of permanent regression, and it's a bit of a mixed bag. It's a reminder of their glory days, but it might leave some fans wishing for something more.