Italian four piece THE ANTHEM release their album ‘High Five’ after some high profile shows, such as supporting YOU ME AT SIX. If a listener is look for a deep visceral reaction, it will not be found here.
However, what this record lacks in depth, it makes up for with catchy guitar lines and snappy lyrics. Not to everyone’s personal taste, but understandably this record could win them many fans with its stuck-in-your-head advantage.
Tracks such as ‘Friends Stealing Girlfriends’ offer the usual pop-punk formula with a singable chorus and well thought out guitar riffs. It is an easy listen, and this is by no means a bad thing.
A record that you can understand and tap your foot to immediately is still no mean feat, and THE ANTHEM have certainly accomplished this. Nothing original here, but I guess if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
DANIEL GRIFFIN