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American Football - American Football

American Football’s self titled debut ended up being the only album they have released thus far in their career back in 1999, however the album epitomises the phrase “less is more” as the album and its 9 songs still intrigue and excite new and old fans alike. Upon release the band shortly split up, but since 2014 they have been touring and playing shows again. It’s very interesting to find a band with only one album release that can still be successful and popular. Perhaps the soft spoken, confessional lyrics that seem to relate to any teenager’s struggles mixed with dual guitars and varying time signatures of math rock is the perfect blend for making this album critically acclaimed.
Album cover
Each song is perfect for an indie/coming of age movie, capturing a melancholy mood with Steve Lamos' jazz drumming and Mike Kinsella and Steve Holmes' alternating/interacting guitars. It’s a beautiful album and one that you can get lost in as the songs blend together in a way that is not boring but rather pleasing as you can relax and chill out or think about failed relationships. Yes, this album can make you feel those polar opposites, as the chilled out music is paired with lyrics about broken relationships, whether to leave home, and the struggles of leaving college. Allmusic reviewer Fred Thomas stated that "Every song here manages to sound meticulously constructed without diminishing the easy, often dreamlike feel of the album. The record is defined by a sense of possibility and youthful discovery, and stands out not just as an anomalistic emo-jazz hybrid but as a lasting, iconic statement in the often blurry history of independent music". This simply is an album for teenagers written by teenagers.
L-R Steve Holmes, Steve Lamos and Mike Kinsella
Perhaps it’s not surprising that these guys are considered pioneers of the emo genre (not the “I shop at hot topic and am mad at my parents” type of ego btw) With bands such as Jawbreaker and Sunny Day Real Estate paving the way for emo music in the mid 90’s, American Football joined them with this record, making them a big influence on later emo bands to come along, paving the way for bands like Jimmy Eat World, Alkaline Trio and Saves the Day.

My favourite song on the album is the first song Never Meant. The rhythmic and jazzy drumming mixed with harmonious guitars and lyrics about breaking up with someone loved make for a great song that on one hand can make you chilled out yet also make you remember your experiences with love whether good or bad, really set the tone for what the album is like as a whole. Also, the video is stunning piece of film and it really compliments the song excellently.




So in conclusion, if you want a dreamy, melancholy tinged album, with math rock and emo influences, then listen and buy this album.


Album Rating 8.5/10

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