Returning to their roots

Weezer are back with their fourth self-titled album, The White Album. It triggers a nostalgic and familiar sound full of power pop guitars and melodic lyrics. With one good song after another, you can sing along to every song on this album. They were able to bring back that 90s Weezer sound of catchy hooks and riffs after a period of experimental hits. What everyone has been wanting, but no one expected.

True to their native selves, the album opens up with a soft beach background and optimistic lyrics in “California Kids.” With reassuring lyrics like “Don’t you worry, It’s gonna be alright,” it’s a hopeful anthem for individuals who seem a little lost.  It’s a nice cross where melodic meets the beach and leads to a flawless transition into their next song “Wind in Our Sail,” another breezy and optimistic song with a more striking drumbeat.

Weezer really took to California vibes on The White Album. “(Girl We Got a) Good Thing” is reminiscent of a 1960s pop song with a sweet chorus and a bit of a jingle jingle. The lyrics suggest infatuation with a girl, that perfect relationship when one falls in love, and the melody is extremely catchy. “Do You Wanna Get High?” is a little different in the vibe it gives. It’s still a perky track continuing the flow of the album with a guitar that really stands out.

Rivers Cuomo gets a little more vulnerable in the lyrics for “King of the World.” He wants to make this girl his and take her pain away. A sweet attempt at displaying his affection for her. “L.A. Girlz” is another romance lured song, Cuomo writes about his feelings for a girl who doesn’t reciprocate the same emotions. He hits a similar mood in “Jacked Up,” which is really just musically clean. With higher vocals and a very alive piano, it’s a little more beat focused. It highlights that vintage Weezer sound.

The album wraps up with “Endless Bummer.” It starts as an acoustic ballad with a pleasant feeling and closes with alternative rock guitars. The song is about heartbreak and evokes the typical teen angst post breakup, while still keeping a catchy hook. It’s the perfect close to a great pop-rock album that is meant to be played in full. The White Album hits you with track after track of catchy songs. Weezer came full circle bringing it back to the basics. A must listen for any power pop alternative rock fan.