Arizona's kings of breakup tunes return with their eighth studio album. Damage reveals them as a band that sits comfortably with a sound that completely relies on the voice and melodies of frontman Jim Adkins.
However, although JEW have the ability to craft catchy rock songs, the overall execution this time round is a tad weak.
Damage will have fans longing for Jimmy's days as an anthemic alternative rock force that is best heard on 2001's Bleed America. First track Appreciation has an overly sentimental vibe that doesn't feel appropriate for an opening tune. But the mood begins to change on Lean, with its summery atmosphere and upbeat chorus. Book of Love uses quirky instrumentals, which is refreshing amid the predominantly plain guitar work, and the brilliantly titled Byebyelove has the hardest-hitting chorus of the album.
Overall though, Adkins is the true star of the show and it's his lyrical weight and vocal tone that provides the backbone of the album.
And even though the instrumentation is dull at times, and Damage may disappoint older fans with it's distinct lack of punch, it's highly accessible melodies and interesting song structures is likely to garner them an even wider audience.
