After more than a four year absence/hiatus, The Weakerthans have returned with their latest album Reunion Tour. The album features the Canadian natives’ trademark obscure, sensual lyrics with a soft rock, at times folk sound.

The album’s first track “Civil Twilight” is the hardest and fastest of the 12 songs. It’s extremely catchy and brings a reminder of old-time Weezer. I wouldn’t be surprised if this track catches fire in the coming weeks. Other equally good songs, though not as energetic, include “Night Windows” and “Reunion Tour”, both which feature stunning lyrics.

Most of the album’s lyrics at times are confusing. They appear to be strange, obscure references to events in frontman John Sampson’s life - both the fiction and non-fiction variety. Yet they often flow smoothly throughout and remain the best characteristic of the album. The melodies are often simple as is the instrumentation.

The album is nothing we haven’t heard from the band before. Even if it is more experimental, which the band declared it would be, it’s not to the point that it’s blatantly obvious. It’s a solid album. Not overpowering, not under underwhelming. There are tracks you’ll want to repeat and track that you’ll eventually come to skip (”Elegy for Gump Worsley”). But in the end, it won’t become a disappointing buy. And it’s a solid addition to an already solid Weakerthan’s discography.

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Check Out:
Civil Twilight
Virtute the Cat Explains Her Departure

Categories: Album Reviews
Tags: The Weakerthans