[MUSIC REVIEW] You Me At Six – Sinners Never Sleep

YOU ME AT SIX
Sinners Never Sleep
[Virgin Records]
Verdict: 7/10
RIYL: The Classic Case, We Are the Ocean, Paramore
In many ways, the newest album by British group YOU ME AT SIX is a transitional record. The band has become well known for crafting catchy pop-punk gems, but the band obviously wants to get away from that. They are “growing up”, but often that progression hinders their sound. In fact, their album plays out like musical puberty, starting with youthful pop-punk anthems and ending with lengthy pensive pieces. Oddly enough, it’s the “pre-progression” part of the album that absolutely shines. The first two tracks are stand-out tracks that I would put in my favorite punk songs of the past couple years. The songs sound absolutely huge and are instant classics, with hooks that are impossible to ignore. Vocalist John Franceschi’s improvement is notable hear, as his stellar performance throughout the album helps keep even the average songs from being boring. While I am obviously gushing about the opening tracks, the middle is where the potential for the band is obvious, but overall product is not quite yet there. Every song has its merits, but in the middle of the record the band embraces a post-hardcore influenced alt/rock sound, much like THE CLASSIC CASE. The musical chops are there, but the songwriting is not currently up to par with the change in musical direction. Basically, these more “mature” songs lack the immediate impact of the more punkish side of the band, but it’s evident with further listens that this new direction will suit the band once they are comfortable in their new sound. All this makes the album sound like it’s an utter failure after the opening songs, but that’s not the case at all. It’s more that the band’s latest output exhibits some growing pains that are well worth the occasional misstep. For now, listeners are left with a solid, if varied, listen. – by Nicholas Senior

>> Recommended Listening: “Loverboy” and “Jaws On the Floor”
>> Release Date: January 24th, 2012 (USA — released 2011 in UK)
>> In Conclusion: The latest album by these British lads showcases the transition from catchy punk tunes to more introspective alt/rock. While there are growing pains exhibited here, the end result is an enjoyably diverse record.