The Damned Things – High Crimes

Worth the long wait

After almost ten years since the release of their debut album and a four-year hiatus in between, The Damned Things have produced a solid second album. High Crimes. The American rock supergroup is comprised of talented artists from well-known bands across a few genres.

With Joe Trohman (lead guitar, backing vocals) and Andy Hurley (drums, percussions) from Fall Out Boy, Scott Ian (rhythm guitar, backing vocals) from Anthrax, Keith Buckley (lead vocals) from Every Time I Die and Dan Andriano (bass guitar) from Alkaline Trio, each member brings established skills and knowledge that work together. With Ironiclast, their first album, success was achieved on many charts and the band started off with gaining the number one spot on Top Heatseekers. As newcomers that were bringing years and years of experience, the acclaim they received was no surprise.

While High Crimes does not pack the same punch as their first album, it shines in a different way and brings a lot to the table. From the first song, “Cells,” fans who have been waiting can appreciate talent being displayed on every instruments, particularly the guitar. Lead singer Keith Buckley even yells “guitar!” in the song before Joe Trohman delivers an amazing solo.

Throughout the album, each member can be appreciated because listeners can actually hear what they bring to the table. The vocals are not in-your-face overwhelming as to drown out everything else. Fans have the opportunity in almost every song to take note of the prowess and command each band member has over their respective instrument.

Even with the recent addition of Dan Andriano on bass guitar this past February, The Damned Things took it in stride and it didn’t hinder the release date for High Crimes. The album proves why they are a band that people should be looking at.

Although among the ten tracks, there isn’t a stand out song. All the songs are of the same level, but the level set is engaging. However, there is one song that jars the flow of the album and that’s the second track, “Something Good.” Most of the song is on par with the rest of the album, but there is a cheerleading-esq cheer at the beginning and throughout the song that seems out of place. Luckily, it’s the second track of the album and things pick up with “Invincible” right after.

Overall, High Crimes is a satisfying album from The Damned Things and shows their versatility as a band. Clearly, they have a lot to offer and, hopefully, fans won’t have to wait as long for another album.