Record Label: Epic
Genre: Rock
Band Link:
Buy on Amazon.com link

I’ve never been a fan of Alkaline Trio but I’m assuming they have changed their sound quite a bit since their Asian Man Records debut. Back in 1998, they released their first album on Asian Man Records called “Goddamnit” and their popularity seemed to take off from there. 10 years later, they are now on Epic Records, and this album is their major label debut. If I was a fan of this band, I’m not sure I’d be happy with this. I’m sure the band is getting a lot of flack from signing to a major.

“Agony & Irony” is a mainstream sounding album that’s very polished. One album that comes to mind when listening to this, is Tiger Army’s latest album. They go from this goth rockabilly sound to this dance punk rock shit. AT sounds like Good Charlotte and Green Day on this album. You know, REAL punk bands. But expect to hear Alkaline Trio on the radio a lot because that’s what’s going to happen. The band dropped their goth-like images & themes and seemed to just concentrate on writing radio friendly songs. I don’t know, this album is just too poppy to really like it and I’m afraid AT’s following will agree with me.

Bottom Line: Fans will absolutely hate this album
Notable Tracks: In Vein
Overall Rating: