'Catalyst' twists New Found Glory

New Found Glory - Catalyst

Looking for that perfect summer album to roll down your window and sing along to?

Well, look no further than New Found Glory's name latest release, "Catalyst."

New Found Glory is one of those rare bands that has stayed with its indie-label roots even after a successful album. With the group's 2002 release, "Sticks and Stones," New Found Glory went gold and gained more fans on a national level.

The intro song on "Catalyst" starts with an in-your-face, hardcore song that will most likely freak out old fans. But right before the emo kids start to cry, the single "All Down Hill From Here" starts in traditional New Found Glory fashion.

The album continues with the group's traditional style, including the song "Truth of My Youth," where lead singer Jordan Pundik sings "There was a girl I knew, way back when, who says she doesn't know me anymore."

Yes, that's the same old New Found Glory.

Perhaps the band's one difference is the album's '80s style twist. On some songs, it sounds like New Found Glory borrowed synthesizers from The Cars. The '80s rock sound only adds to the upbeat songs and doesn't seem out of place.

Perhaps the group's greatest strength is its infectious hooks. You sometimes feel like singing along with a song when you don't even know the words. This band's true strength is its ability to make simple music that can be loved by anyone.

While this CD offers nothing groundbreaking, it is the perfect album to get you in the mood for summer.

Grade: B

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