Artist: Brand New Album: Deja Entendu

Year: 2003
Duration: 48:52

Brand New's Deja Entendu: A Critical Review of the Album

Brand New is one of the most influential rock bands in recent memory. Formed in Long Island, New York, in the early 2000s, the band quickly gained popularity with their debut album Your Favorite Weapon. However, it was their sophomore album Deja Entendu that really set them apart from the pack. Released in 2003, Deja Entendu showcased a new sound and artistic direction for the band, which has since become a cult classic in the emo and alternative rock genres.

Genre and Influences: Deja Entendu is a departure from the pop-punk sound of Your Favorite Weapon, instead incorporating elements of emo, post-hardcore, and alternative rock. The album was largely influenced by bands like Sunny Day Real Estate, Radiohead, and The Smiths, and deals with themes of love, loss, and mental illness.

Best Songs: There are plenty of standout tracks on Deja Entendu, but one of the most beloved is Sic Transit Gloria...Glory Fades. The song features a haunting piano riff and frontman Jesse Lacey's emotionally charged vocals. Other highlights include I Will Play My Game Beneath The Spin Light, Okay I Believe You, But My Tommy Gun Don't, and The Quiet Things That No One Ever Knows.

Innovative Parts: One of the most innovative aspects of Deja Entendu is the use of spoken word interludes, which serve as a sort of thematic connective tissue for the album. These spoken word segments are often dark and introspective, mirroring the overall tone of the album. Another innovative aspect is the lyrical content, which is more introspective and poetic than the straightforward lyrics found on Your Favorite Weapon.

Critiques: While Deja Entendu is widely regarded as a classic album, it is not without its flaws. Some critics have noted that the spoken word interludes can be jarring and disrupt the flow of the album. Additionally, some feel that the production is overly polished, detracting from the gritty, raw emotiveness of the music.

Despite its flaws, Deja Entendu remains a beloved album for fans of alternative rock and emo music. With its introspective lyrics, innovative use of spoken word interludes, and catchy melodies, it's no wonder that the album has stood the test of time. While it may not be for everyone, it's certainly worth a listen for anyone looking to explore the emo genre.