Album Details

• Artist: Bayside
• Album: The Walking Wounded
• Label: Victory
• Year of Release: 2007
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: symphony on 2007-03-05

John "Beatz" Holohan is on the forefront of any conversation concerning Bayside. Usually, that wouldn't be a problem, say they were talking about his skills; however, all conversation pertaining to his talent evaporated with his death in October, 2005. That's exceptionally sad. The think The Walking Wounded is a perfect response to all the talk and an equally good escape. Remove focus from all the negativity. Not only that, it is some of the best music Bayside has ever played to date--and you notice a real sense of growth and maturity, throughout the lyrics and the music.

The lyrics still delve into the depths of whatever miseray the singer Anthony Raneri may be going through--but it's turned from angsty writing to angry, frustrated lyricism that really move you, yet at the same time he can dive straight to the point he is trying to make with lines like "I wish we never met" ("They're Not Horses, They're Unicorns"). While many would expect numerous references to Beatz, besides the title track, you really don't hear it. The musical growth makes this album so astounding. O'Shea's guitar skills are amazing--and you come to expect that out of Bayside, so it doesn't phase you. At first. But when songs that have amazing bridges like "Carry On" or intros that as mood-setting as "They're Not Horses, They're Unicorns" or even the ska-like bass lines only to be built into spectacular choruses like in "I and I," you are [hased--and the musical maturity is striking.

Little innovative twists to their sound really make the album. The gang chanint in "I and I" shouting "I and I are taking control of our lives" or the strings that bridge you to the chorus in "Duality," though small touches, are numerous throughout the album. Maturity seems to be a general theme in this album--growing up, moving on, but not forgetting the past and their roots. And that can never be bad.

User Reviews and Comments

Review:

on 2007-07-16 SolitaryMan Said:

This was my first (and up until now, only) experience with Bayside, and I'm glad to say it was a pleasant one. "The Walking Wounded" is to my ears punk played by a band too mature to be called a punk outfit. Many memorable, catchy songs throughout and the album never is derailed from it's pacing and it's steady dosing of quality music. This isn't my typical style of music as my tastes rarely venture into anything punk in nature, aesthetics or sound. So a good nod for Bayside, from me, is big praise.
Rating: 7/10

Review:

on 2007-03-09 kevinare Said:

in the beginning you talk about john beatz, he was an amazing drummer. the sleeping made a great song dedicated to him. im pretty sire there isnt any review on their album yet so im doin that one. good review i like this album alot
Rating: 10/10