Sometimes it’s nice to have music on that doesn’t require you pay attention to it; something to provide you with company that you can tune in and out from while it’s on.

‘Fast Times At Barrington High’ is the latest from The Academy Is. It is very much the kind of music that you can put on and forget about. However, it can just as easily assert itself, by simply turning up the volume. The music, played softly, blends into the background, perfect for an afternoon of sitting around the apartment, reading, working, doing whatever. Likewise, turned up, this music becomes something to party to, something to sing and dance along to, something to blast in the MP3 player on your morning commute.

The music is anthemic, appropriately tailor-made for a medium-to-large arena show, and listening to the album it is very easy to imagine how much better this will sound live. The lyrics offer clever turns of phrase, confessionals and simplicity, guaranteeing their infectiousness and marketability.

The songs on the album feel familiar without feeling generic; they are comfortable yet sincere, and while not breaking any barriers or exploring new levels, the music is nevertheless refreshing and entertaining.

The only weakness of the album comes from how much alike some of the songs sound. For instance: the first two tracks off the album, “About A Girl” and “Summer Hair = Forever Young” sound so much alike that it’s easy to lose where one ends and the other begins. Sometimes those transitions can be a little distracting.

All in all, however, ‘Fast Times At Barrington High’ is a solid performer; enjoyable, and well thought out.

The Academy Is: Fast Times At Barrington High
Fueled By Ramen
Steve’s Rating: 8/10

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