With Neck Deep's latest release, Life's Not Out To Get You, the band have played it relatively safe, changing little from the upbeat pop-punk formula established on 2014's Wishful Thinking, but have still managed to cram some undeniably catchy moments into this new set.
Opening track "Citizens Of Earth" and "Serpent," respectively, are the only songs that take a welcome detour from the major chord progressions found throughout the album, employing punchy, alt-rock-esque verses. That being said, the lighter, bouncier songs, like "Gold Steps" and "Lime St.," manage to stay memorable and infectious with their well-placed chorus hooks.
The high production value of this record is apparent from the start and is a redeeming feature, but doesn't change the fact that there are more than a couple of exhausted pop punk clichés here, as on the obligatory hometown anthem "Can't Kick Up The Roots." That aside though, Neck Deep manage to pace the album well and include a mix of the sounds they've come to be known for.
(Hopeless)Opening track "Citizens Of Earth" and "Serpent," respectively, are the only songs that take a welcome detour from the major chord progressions found throughout the album, employing punchy, alt-rock-esque verses. That being said, the lighter, bouncier songs, like "Gold Steps" and "Lime St.," manage to stay memorable and infectious with their well-placed chorus hooks.
The high production value of this record is apparent from the start and is a redeeming feature, but doesn't change the fact that there are more than a couple of exhausted pop punk clichés here, as on the obligatory hometown anthem "Can't Kick Up The Roots." That aside though, Neck Deep manage to pace the album well and include a mix of the sounds they've come to be known for.
