If you read my previous post, you'll know that while I had some reserved judgement about the new Weezer album, after an initial listening I changed my mind, and all doubts went away. At first listen, I found that "Raditude" was enjoyable, throw-away fun, but not anything spectacular. But after I got my hands on the physical CD and was able to really dig into it, I've realized that this isn't a good album as I once thought.
This is a great album.
Yes, "Raditude" lives up to it's ridiculous name and is packed with 10 power-jams that, while it shows off the newer sound the band has gained in the past few albums, contains all the old Weezer charm. Sure, like all the old Weezer fans, I long for a new album that recaptures the old "Pinkerton" sound, but that will never happen. I've accepted it and so should the rest of the Weezer faithful. Rivers is gonna do what he feels like, and he doesn't care who disagrees with it. So once you get past the fact that this album isn't old Weezer, you'll discover a truly catchy and just plain wacky album this is.
The album's first single, "(If You're Wondering If I Want You To) I Want You To" is quite possibly the best Weezer song since "Island in the Sun". It's catchy, has a great chorus, and sounds great live. Other highlights include the so-bad-it's-good "Can't Stop Partyin'" (featuring a guest verse fro Lil' Wayne) and the electro-pop anthem "I'm Your Daddy". There are some straight up rockers too, like "Let it All Hang Out" and "Trippin' Down the Freeway". The ending track isn't Weezer's best (since as it comes to ending tracks Weezer usually scores) but it's serviceable.
All in all, if you're looking for another "Blue Album", you'll be sorely disappointed. But that's no reason to diss this otherwise very good record. Sure it's goofy and kinda dumb, but has Weezer ever really been that serious? Just accept it. If you do, you'll get an enjoyable listen out of "Raditude".
Final Score:
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