Alkaline Trio - This Addiction

[Drew Beringer]

Alkaline Trio – This Addiction
Release Date: February 23, 2010
Record Label: Epitaph

After expanding their musical boundaries with their last two albums, Alkaline Trio is returning back to what made their music so addictive. Their seventh studio album (and Epitaph/Heart and Skull debut), This Addiction, takes cues from their dearly loved earlier records, such as Goddammit and From Here To Infirmary. The Chicago natives’ main goal was to make a stripped-down punk rock record while maintaining a big sound. This Addiction accomplishes this, but does it recapture the same magic first heard 12 years ago? Throughout the album, the highs are incredibly enjoyable, while the lows are brutal, just like with any addiction.

As soon as the title track’s initial guitar riff blasts through your speakers, I immediately noticed Matt Allison’s production, as it’s definitely a throwback to early Trio recordings. It captures the vibe of the album nicely, but it will create a love/hate predicament for many fans. But don’t think that the Trio doesn’t throw a few bells and whistles into the mix. Horns fill the background nicely during “Lead Poisoning,” while the synth heard on “Eating Me Alive” puts a little glam into the band’s gothic style. Tracks like “Lead Poisoning” and “Dorothy” capture that melodic yet menacing sound the band had perfected earlier in their career, and “Dine, Dine My Darling” and “Off the Map” have more of a pop vibe to them. “The American Scream” is the ideal Trio song; it’s totally dynamic and enthralling, and should be a quick fan favorite.

Lyrically, This Addiction features some of the band’s most personal lyrics, as well using drug addictions as a metaphor for love and relationships. And just previous records, some of the lyrics are cringe worthy, while others really hit home. Also, one of the album’s standouts, “The American Scream,” shows the band delving into politics somewhat, as guitarist Matt Skiba’s words were inspired by an American soldier who killed himself after returning from Afghanistan.

But with most Alkaline Trio records, fans always break it down between Skiba’s songs and bassist Dan Andriano’s songs. Both vocalists bring something different to the table, as each voice fits certain vibes and creates a nice back and forth variety on each record. It’s more of the same on This Addiction. While Skiba’s frantic voice sounds awesome on the title track and “The American Scream,” he falls flat on blunders like “Draculina” and “Piss and Vinegar.” Andriano only leads on three tracks, but sounds fantastic in each, especially in album closer, “Fine.”

Sometimes the problem with “throwback” albums is the listeners’ tendency to just listen to earlier work. I mean, what’s going to stop you from turning this off and putting on From Here To Infirmary? Personally, the growth in musicianship from that album to This Addiction is staggering and should keep listeners interested. And while some of Skiba’s weakest material shows up here, Andriano really shines and picks up some of the slack.

This Addiction promises exactly what the title describes, as most older fans will eat this up. It strikes me as an album that could be polarizing to fans, splitting them into three groups: fans who love the album because it goes back to the band’s roots, fans who dislike this album because they may think it’s is a cheap imitation of older days, and the fans who might think this is a step backwards from the previous album. One thing is for certain though: this is definitely an Alkaline Trio punk rock record, and This Addiction is my kind of relapse.

Track Listing:
1. This Addiction
2. Dine, Dine My Darling
3. Lead Poisoning
4. Dead on the Floor
5. The American Scream
6. Off the Map
7. Draculina
8. Eating Me Alive
9. Piss and Vinegar
10. Dorothy
11. Fine
Produced by: Matt Allison and Alkaline Trio

Alkaline Trio is:
Matt Skiba – guitar/vocals
Dan Andriano – bass/vocals
Derek Grant – drums

Official Website (http://www.alkalinetrio.com); Official Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/alkalinetrio); Official AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/alkalinetrio)

[Paulb-182]

It always disappoints me when I see bands going back to old sounds after a while to try and get their old fans back. There are so many of my old favourites who I can't stand to listen to now. Alkaline Trio are one of them. I will eventually check this out, but I'm not holding my breath for greatness.

[Chris Fallon]

I enjoy this album. It's very simple and effective. "Fine" is one of the best songs they have ever written and "The American Scream" seems to be stuck in my head more than any other song lately.

[ilovesofie]

I'm gonna check the album tonight. Out of all the albums they've released, I love Crimson & Good Mourning the most, so i'm curious. Anyway, well written review man!

[HogarthHughes]

Great review, though I personally would have rated it higher. You make many fair points though, especially about a couple of Skiba's songs being a bit weak. That said, Skiba at his weakest is better than most bands at their best.

[adumb]

As a long time Trio fan, I'm really pleased with this record. I don't really see it as a cheap harkening back to the old days as some have mentioned (this review not included). It seems that so many bands often create a rawer follow-up to a glossier album (MxPx instantly comes to mind with Panic after Before Everything & After).

Either way, with the possible exception of Agony & Irony, these guys have had songs on every record that sounded like their earlier stuff. They just seemed to try new things in between those older sounding songs. Crimson is a good example of this. There were classic Trio sounding songs like "Dethbed," "Back to Hell," and "The Poison" with other songs like "Burn" and "Smoke" going for something a bit different. "Sadie" was more of a blending of the old with the new.

On This Addiction, one of the only songs I'm not thrilled about is "Fine." I'm not sure I've ever heard such a delicate and studio glossed track by this band.

[EchoPark]

Why didn't Fallon write the review for this one? This is rated criminally low.

My Dinosaur Life higher than this? You've gotta be kidding pal

[adumb]

By the way, I'm looking forward to hearing the two bonus tracks ("Kick Rocks" and "Those Lungs") from the deluxe edition of the album. Hopefully at least one of those tracks will be a Dan song.

[adumb]

Why didn't Fallon write the review for this one? This is rated criminally low.

My Dinosaur Life higher than this? You've gotta be kidding pal
Agreed. I used to LOVE Motion City Soundtrack but I just can't get into My Dinosaur Life no matter how hard I try. The only tracks that stick for mer are "Worker Bee" and "Her Words Destroyed My Planet."

I'm going to give it a few more spins. Perhaps when the weather gets a bit warmer.

[circasurviver]

"Sometimes the problem with “throwback” albums is the listeners’ tendency to just listen to earlier work. I mean, what’s going to stop you from turning this off and putting on From Here To Infirmary? Personally, the growth in musicianship from that album to This Addiction is staggering and should keep listeners interested. And while some of Skiba’s weakest material shows up here, Andriano really shines and picks up some of the slack. "

Ha Ha That's what I did, I listened to this 3 or 4 times but now I've gone back have been listening too Infirmary and Remains all week. I love all AT albums, but I was really enjoying the progression on Crimson & Agony, this just seem like a step backwards. I agree that Dan has really out shined Matt on this album and their last one. Oh well I still enjoy it, any Alkaline Trio album is better than no Alkaline Trio album. Oh, and I can't freaking wait to see them and Cursive in a few short weeks. :excited:

[McIrish]

I enjoy this album. It's very simple and effective. "Fine" is one of the best songs they have ever written and "The American Scream" seems to be stuck in my head more than any other song lately.
I was expecting a review from you, since this is more your area.


No offense, Drew. Good Review.

[circasurviver]

Why didn't Fallon write the review for this one? This is rated criminally low.

My Dinosaur Life higher than this? You've gotta be kidding pal

Well I like My Dinosaur Life better, and this is coming from a huge Alkaline Trio fan who doesn't really care for MCS.

[Jamais_vu]

Goddamnit! is the best Alk3 record hands down. This doesn't sound like that. I wish Skiba could get his voice back from that time. It's too messed up from the shit he's done.

[Kill_the_radio]

I think that Dan has surpassed Matt's writing skills for these last trio albums...

[live4music]

Makes me sad to see such a low score. It's been so long since I've been excited about something they've done.

[Alex DiVincenzo]

Glad to hear that this isn't as bad as everyone was saying. I need to check it out.

[ddb43]

This album has grown on me. There are a few standout tracks and a few lackluster ones. Dan really outshines Skiba on this one. "Dine Dine My Darling" is fantastic. I wish Dan would knock out an album himself. Can't wait to see them on 3/18! Good job overall...album and review.

[decrescendo27]

I think that Dan has surpassed Matt's writing skills for these last trio albums...
I agree.

[Mattylikesfilms]

i have been a alk3 fan since the 6th grade, i even was supposed to get their heartskull logo tattooed (I didnt though hah). I loved every album (yes crimson too) but this album just does not excite me like all their other albums have.


im bummmmmmmming.

[heyozzie]

i did not like this album at all. and i'm a huge trio fan. sidenote, i also really don't like the new motion city either. guess i'm the only one.

[friskycurtain]

I thought the album was rather boring. There were a lot of guitar riffs and melodies on this album that made me go, "I think I heard them do a song just like this before." I have been a lukewarm fan of this band for awhile now. I love Crimson and various songs from their discography but I really am not seeing anything exciting on this particular album.

And to heyozzie: Actually Motion City's new album really does nothing for me. It was very underwhelming. So you are not alone on not liking it. It is sad really, cuz I really love Motion City's other albums.

[guitarliketom]

i dont know if i still enjoy alkaline trio for actually being good or because they were the band that broke me out of awful music when i first heard goddamit

[Yellowcard2006]

Throughout the album, the highs are incredibly enjoyable, while the lows are brutal, just like with any addiction

Great line.

I'm not really a fan, but I'm gonna give this a listen.

[trash zoo]

I thought the album was rather boring. There were a lot of guitar riffs and melodies on this album that made me go, "I think I heard them do a song just like this before." I have been a lukewarm fan of this band for awhile now. I love Crimson and various songs from their discography but I really am not seeing anything exciting on this particular album.
I agree. This one seems incredibly uninspired compared to the last three albums, and not even really as good as the old stuff everyone's crazy about.

[Jet Set Paul]

Hmm...as of now "Piss and Vinegar" is one of my favorite songs on the album. This album sorta feels like "Agony and Irony II". It's not terrible, it's just not "Maybe I'll Catch Fire".

[Thomas Nassiff]

i never even listened to these guys before their last album came out, so that's the only one i have by them. i just don't dig this guy's voice.

[Poochemist]

Looking forward to hearing this one, although I've gotta admit that I really like their newest stuff the best.

[circasurviver]

Hey Drew, it's their 7th album, and the last time you mention The American Scream you called it American Dream. Just a heads up.

[ramomcferno]

I think its a solid CD. I enjoyed it.

[dafries1]

This is definitely a From Here to Infirmary Part 2 sound, but I still love it. I haven't been too into any of their records since FHTI (with the exception of Remains), and while it might be a step back from their musical progression, it is damn addictive and I cannot wait to hear these songs live.

[RiskyXBandit]

When it's all said and done, it's still the Alkaline Trio and I will love everything they put out.

I do enjoy the album. It's not great, it's not bad, it's just fine.

Does "Dead on the Floor" remind anyone else of "Southern Rock"? I seriously thought it was "Southern Rock" when the song came on due to the guitar intro haha

[weworemasks]

jesus, some of you are idiots. 75% is a very good score if you ask me.

[adurna_isidar]

This album was pretty boring at times. I think it deserved the rating it got. Yes there are some great tracks but overall the album is par. Maybe it will grow on me... I hope so.

[TopperHarley]

jesus, some of you are idiots. 75% is a very good score if you ask me.
Possibly. But not compared to the 92% that Motion City Soundtrack got for that steaming pile of shit they just put out.

[Twikki]

honestly, i fell in love with the sound they produced on crimson. i think they were going somewhere (especially with that piano intro on time to waste)

but why would you go back and hold yourself back? this album isn't terrible but i'm just thinking how great it could have been, on agony & irony and this album, dan's songs have been my favourites

[Indoor Living]

Possibly. But not compared to the 92% that Motion City Soundtrack got for that steaming pile of shit they just put out.
Wrong. Both albums are good, but My Dinosaur Life is far and away the better album.

[Drew Beringer]

Hey Drew, it's their 7th album, and the last time you mention The American Scream you called it American Dream. Just a heads up.
thanks

[AllTimeSaruhh]

Alkaline Trio is one of my favorite bands. I don't really understand why most people aren't very excited for the album to come out. My friends who downloaded the leak think it's great. I'm excited for it.
Maybe you all should check out other bands if you don't like it :|
Like Alesana, The Emptiness came out yesterday and that's an amazing CD too. Repeat since yesterday morning.

[fairweather002]

I have loved everything this band releases, but I tend to play the older stuff more than say Crimson or A&I. I always secretly wished they would go back to their original style, whilst not holding my breath. This album is exactly what I was looking for. Ive noticed when bands say they are heading back in the studio to create something older, it tends to sound just like that. It comes off as an attempt rather than a naturally sounding "older" album. I believe Alkaline Trio nailed it on the head with this release, capturing the Goddammit days without a fake manufactured sound...IMO. I listened to the entire album and not one song disappointed. Awesome review as well! :thumbup:

[Sloth7]

I bet American Nightmare... err, I mean Give Up the Ghost, is mad Alkaline Trio bit off their album cover idea.

Good review, looking forward to giving this a spin.

[ACA]

Probably the band's worst album and in no way deserving of praise.

[Maiaophilia]

Well I like My Dinosaur Life better, and this is coming from a huge Alkaline Trio fan who doesn't really care for MCS.
I'm both a huge MCS and Alk3 Fan.
And I feel MDL is better than this addiction. But This Addiction wasn't too disappointing.

[weworemasks]

Possibly. But not compared to the 92% that Motion City Soundtrack got for that steaming pile of shit they just put out.

i think MDL is a better record (it's still pretty bland save for a few songs) than the previous, but yeah, fuck 92%.

[zeropunk16]

I enjoy this very much so. Can't stop listening.

[MSIndulgence]

Why didn't Fallon write the review for this one? This is rated criminally low.

My Dinosaur Life higher than this? You've gotta be kidding pal
Are you fucking kidding me? My Dinosaur Life is an awesome record. This Addiction is by far the worst album I have heard all year.

[circasurviver]

Are you fucking kidding me? My Dinosaur Life is an awesome record. This Addiction is by far the worst album I have heard all year.
Ha Ha well I guess that's not to bad, maybe it'll be a bigger insult in December.

[onetwentyseven]

As a long time fan, I'm very pleased with this album. I do find myself skipping some tracks in the middle, but from "Eating Me Alive" through to "Fine", i can't stop listening. I think the last half of the album is far better than the first.

[Fentoooozler]

This album just seems underwhelming to me

Lot's of songs that you rate 3 stars on your itunes

[Portugal4142]

Yeah this is a terrible, terrible release.

[combatchuckaa]

This album just seems underwhelming to me

Lot's of songs that you rate 3 stars on your itunes

You have time to rate your songs on iTunes? haha

[Fentoooozler]

the riff of 'dead on the floor' sounds like it could be on Maybe I'll Catch Fire

the track 'this addiction' sounds closer to something that could have been on goddamnit but it wouldn't have been a standout


Not a helluva a lot else, just because it's more straightforward pop/punk doesn't mean it sounds like old alkaline trio

[DI Pistola]

Buying this without even reading the review.

[Cøltøn]

I would have rated this like 5 - 10% lower. It's decent but just not what they were once capable of. This Addiction, Piss and Vinegar and Eating Me Alive are probably my favorites. Draculina is annoying. And for some reason the guitar in Lead Poisoning also irks me.

[Whalejaw]

I just cannot get into this album at all. It just bores me.

[EchoPark]

Are you fucking kidding me? My Dinosaur Life is an awesome record. This Addiction is by far the worst album I have heard all year.
Well let's just be thankful that your opinion is not highly valued around here, otherwise we would be in big trouble

[newfoundmichael]

Well I like My Dinosaur Life better, and this is coming from a huge Alkaline Trio fan who doesn't really care for MCS.
Same here. I don't really care much for MCS, but Alkaline Trio is one of my top 3 favorite bands. The new Motion City Soundtrack album is a lot better though...it pains me to say it!

[newfoundmichael]

Are you fucking kidding me? My Dinosaur Life is an awesome record. This Addiction is by far the worst album I have heard all year.
haha, we're 27 days into the year. how many albums have you listened to?

[MSIndulgence]

haha, we're 27 days into the year. how many albums have you listened to?
I didn't phrase that right. Within this year and last year it's probably in my top 5 most let-down records. Others being Mayday Parade & Taking Back Sunday.

[newfoundmichael]

I didn't phrase that right. Within this year and last year it's probably in my top 5 most let-down records. Others being Mayday Parade & Taking Back Sunday.
Okay I got you. I can't really agree, in that this is a step in the right direction for me. Agony and Irony was a choir for me to listen to for the most part. The simplistic pop-punk song is what I feel AK3 does best.

Never cared much for Mayday Parade, but yes, the newest TBS did blow something fierce.

[jetsetvenom]

This album has grown on me. There are a few standout tracks and a few lackluster ones. Dan really outshines Skiba on this one. "Dine Dine My Darling" is fantastic. I wish Dan would knock out an album himself. Can't wait to see them on 3/18! Good job overall...album and review.
www.myspace.com/theemergencyroom911

It's only a matter of time, my friend.

[LewistonSpecial]

My Dinosaur Life rules.

[con40dmitri]

this album seems bland, i probably would have been into it 10 years ago, but also glad theyre still putting out music.

[cory-182]

I loved the song This Addiction, but I couldn't get into this album.

I guess I just need to face the facts...I am not a A3 fan.

[Clark]

...
Your avatar is atrocious.

[fairweather002]

Your avatar is atrocious.
Thank you.

[MSIndulgence]

Okay I got you. I can't really agree, in that this is a step in the right direction for me. Agony and Irony was a choir for me to listen to for the most part. The simplistic pop-punk song is what I feel AK3 does best.

Never cared much for Mayday Parade, but yes, the newest TBS did blow something fierce.
Never really listened to Mayday Parade untill anamericangod recommended them and I enjoyed the first album. Then the backup vocalist who did dual vocals on most songs (also the primary lyricist) left the band and they put out a new record and it was terrible.

It's cool though, I've always liked Alk3 but this record just didn't do it for me at all. "Draculina" just added to the boringness of the record, and I'm usually a person to like a record most people think is shitty. Weird.

[TakeLotsWithAlcohol]

My Dinosaur Life was decent.

This is awesome. But then again, I'll defend the Trio until I'm in the grave.

[Chris Fallon]

I was expecting a review from you, since this is more your area.


No offense, Drew. Good Review.
Drew called it first, and I don't like pulling people off reviews they call dibs on. He's as big a Trio fan as I am, though, so he knows his stuff.

[irthesteve]

Agony & Irony is a great album, I don't really want a throwback album right now, but hopefully this is more than just that

[xjdizzle]

It's all about the lyrics and the songwriting i can give 2 shits about the sound and all the other crap!
Obviously its not gono be no Self titled! With all the crap bands put out now tis band is a blessing.

[paoLAWL]

"Fine" is so good.

[CarouselBoy]

You have time to rate your songs on iTunes? haha
I've never really understood the point of that

[slimfenix182]

Drew called it first, and I don't like pulling people off reviews they call dibs on. He's as big a Trio fan as I am, though, so he knows his stuff.

with people's general assertions being that the album is "boring" should I be happy? cause I love mid-tempo Trio....songs like "You're Dead" and "Fuck You Aurora"....one of the reasons I love this band is that they'll never have huge mainstream appeal. their sound just irks some people. I don't think they can write lyrics like they used to (From Here To Infirmary is my songwriting bible lol) but I love the shit out of everything they do.

was kinda curious as to your favorite Trio album Chris, if you have the time.

[i2ockbotm]

jesus, some of you are idiots. 75% is a very good score if you ask me.
It would be if AP.net reviews were evenly distributed between 0-100. But I rarely see albums rated below 50%, especially bands which are meant to be taken seriously

[tipoftheiceberg]

definitely need to hear this, despite only a 75. great live band

[sexcells]

I think that Dan has surpassed Matt's writing skills for these last trio albums...
i totally agree. the emergency room is the only hope i have for these three gentlemen. i hate this record. i think it's totally cheesy. the lyrics are generic and this album is the perfect step for the alkaline trio descend that has been occuring since derek joined the band. fine sounds like a goddamn religious therepeutic song. these drug metaphors have been getting old, matt. he once said right after crimson came out that writing an alkaline trio record is as easy and natural as could possibly be. maybe that is not a good thing, douche bag. i am a drummer and learned a lot from alkaline trio records and this drumming is so goddamn boring it belongs in a cheesy movie. fuck off alkaline trio. i cant believe the amount of credit this record has gotten before the release date.
love,
long time alkaline trio fan with the goddamn tattto on my leg and over 13 shows. peace out alkaline trio.

[andthetruthwill]

On first listen this evening, I liked this record far more than the other three records I know by them (Agony & Irony, Crimson, Maybe I'll Catch Fire). I think it's going to stand up to be an album I like a lot.

[SanePsychotic]

This is a well written review, so kudos to you Drew. I would like to see Chris Fallon write a review for this album just because I know how much of an Alkaline Trio fan he is - I didn't even know you liked Alk3, so seeing your name next to this review was a little weird for me. But nevertheless, this is a good album and while I would rate it above 75% (probably between 80%-85%) I appreciate another more objective perspective on this album.

[drew_vs_shark]

I bet American Nightmare... err, I mean Give Up the Ghost, is mad Alkaline Trio bit off their album cover idea.

Good review, looking forward to giving this a spin.
I was just thinking the same thing.

[drew_vs_shark]

http://i40.tinypic.com/2vnm1ed.jpg

2003.

[IamTheINDUSTRY]

http://i40.tinypic.com/2vnm1ed.jpg

2003.
this has been said a 1000 times. there are many album covers that resemble each other.

[eatanapple]

I'm looking forward to this album coming out. i've been a fan since 'Goddammit' which is still my favourite album they've done.

[drew_vs_shark]

this has been said a 1000 times. there are many album covers that resemble each other.
So far in this thread, it has only been mentioned once. I was just posting a photo as a reference to my comment and Sloth7's comment, seeing as Give Up The Ghost wasn't the most well-known band and a lot of people in this thread and on this site probably had no idea what was being talked about. Besides, This Addiction uses pills instead of candy hearts. The album art is actually very clever and I like it a lot. Sorry if you thought I was trying to offend someone or say something negative by posting that picture.

[schaft]

I was really hyped for this album. The single is great. The album, not so much. It’s not bad, but it’s not the album I (and probably numerous other Trio fans) were expecting based off the single and interviews. But I also didn’t like A&I at first, but that grew on me. Hopefully this album will, too.

[smelltheglove]

it's gonna be hard for this to suck more than "agony & irony". this is their last shot to retain me as a fan. i didn't even like "crimson" much, which might as well be "goddammit" when compared to the suck-fest that was "agony & irony"

[smelltheglove]

i totally agree. the emergency room is the only hope i have for these three gentlemen. i hate this record. i think it's totally cheesy. the lyrics are generic and this album is the perfect step for the alkaline trio descend that has been occuring since derek joined the band. fine sounds like a goddamn religious therepeutic song. these drug metaphors have been getting old, matt. he once said right after crimson came out that writing an alkaline trio record is as easy and natural as could possibly be. maybe that is not a good thing, douche bag. i am a drummer and learned a lot from alkaline trio records and this drumming is so goddamn boring it belongs in a cheesy movie. fuck off alkaline trio. i cant believe the amount of credit this record has gotten before the release date.
love,
long time alkaline trio fan with the goddamn tattto on my leg and over 13 shows. peace out alkaline trio.

jesus, do i even bother buying this thing?

safe to say "infirmiry" will forever be my favorite alk3 release it seems.

[glogglies]

Meh. It's honestly not too terrible of an album. Really though, these lyrics piss me off to no end. They've been so lame since day one, and there's been no progression at all in the lyricism overall. It's always so predictable with these guys. I was singing along with the songs before I even heard the chorus of every song.

[slimfenix182]

jesus, do i even bother buying this thing?

safe to say "infirmiry" will forever be my favorite alk3 release it seems.

dont take the opinion of some jackass who feels so betrayed by A3, that he feels the need to bash them in every fucking Trio thread...listen to it yourself. I love what I've heard. that guy is jaded out of his mind. and nothing wrong with Infirmary being un-toppable....I agree man.

[Grammercy Riffs]

Thought this would've rated higher?

[dpeat14]

I was able to obtain an advanced copy of this, and I'm not feeling it. It's more Agony and Irony than I am hearing advertised, and it sounds way too clean to be going back to their roots. It does sound like they are trying to go back to their old style and sound, but the transition forward and back at the same time ends up sounding a bit like a train wreck. There are a few good songs on there. Dead on the Floor is my early favorite and American Scream is good too. The last 3 songs are almost unlistenable to me at this point. They aren't bad, they are just boring and uninspired and have no good flow to them...as is the case with a lot of these songs. I hear way too much Green Day, Blink 182, and All American Rejects...which is fine, if that' s what you want. But I have always held the Trio to a higher standard. They've always had a little more edge than those power punk/pop kiddie bands. The singing is very clean and pretty, with no Skiba screams. I don't think they dropped a single F-bomb! haha! And all in all, it seemed like they were bored making the album. Can't put my finger on it, but something is keeping me from liking this the first few listens through it. As I've said, it's not bad, but it's ignorable background noise...which is not usually how I am with Trio music.
Maybe it's just a matter of letting our old Trio go and understanding that this is who they are now, which is disappointing. But while it's not a terrible album, the best way I can summarize it is to say very simply, they seem to have lost their edge.

[sexcells]

jesus, do i even bother buying this thing?

safe to say "infirmiry" will forever be my favorite alk3 release it seems.
well you could buy a package with a cool shirt for like 60 bucks on their website.

[sexcells]

Meh. It's honestly not too terrible of an album. Really though, these lyrics piss me off to no end. They've been so lame since day one, and there's been no progression at all in the lyricism overall. It's always so predictable with these guys. I was singing along with the songs before I even heard the chorus of every song.
YES me too! the first time i listened to whatever the hell the song is that says "now it's falling like snow" i sang it!!!! so predictable!!!!

[kieza]

Its a good album, a blend of FHTI and A&I. My fave tracks are Dead on the floor, Lead Poisoning, Fine and Dorothy. Add in the title track and Dan's two other tracks on the album "Dine my Darling" and "Off the Map" and you have a very solid Trio album. Can't wait to hear the bonus tracks on the deluxe edition and DVD! Love live Trio.

[slimfenix182]

YES me too! the first time i listened to whatever the hell the song is that says "now it's falling like snow" i sang it!!!! so predictable!!!!

gosh thats weird, cause I had NO idea he was gonna sing "falling like snow"....guess we can't all be psychic.

[slimfenix182]

and apparently Trio fans hold it against them that they didnt decide to stay poor alcoholics just so the fans can still enjoy their music. wtf, they changed....just like every fucking person on earth.

[DI Pistola]

and apparently Trio fans hold it against them that they didnt decide to stay poor alcoholics just so the fans can still enjoy their music. wtf, they changed....just like every fucking person on earth.
What!? They're not poor alcoholics anymore!!?

[unicornurine]

I love this album.

[patentpending]

and apparently Trio fans hold it against them that they didnt decide to stay poor alcoholics just so the fans can still enjoy their music. wtf, they changed....just like every fucking person on earth.
Omg, this. It's funny to me because the only other "fandom" that I come across as they are my 2nd favorite band is MCR who's fans are girls that are not even half the age of Trio fans, the majority of whom I find are grown ass men and they whine more and in a worse way then MCR fans. All they do is baaawwww and complain how every album they put out isn't Goddamnit or Good Mourning.

I think that this is as close as they are going to get to their “classic” sound without literally making another Goddamnit. I think it’s a good mix of the things they have learned and picked up from all of their albums. But I definitely hear more of an “old school” influence in this one then their last two.

I don’t know. I guess I came to the realization long ago that this band will never sound the same on the next album as the last. If you go through their catalog, every album is so much different then the one before. You can hear their gradual progression so clearly in every thing that they do and I LOVE the fact that they don’t shy away from change. I love that they don’t do the same thing over and over. I love the fact that you just NEVER know what to expect with them from every album.


I understand how a lot of people may not like the direction they have taken, but I mean, it’s been what, like a little more then ten years? In that time you have to expect that some exploration and stepping out of the box will be done. I think that what we’re seeing and experiencing is them doing that and trying to find a place where they are comfortable, and naturally that place changes with every album.


I like that they never ever try to cater to what they think people want to hear, but try to make an album that they are happy with and fits into where they are at that point and time.

Some of the things people are saying, it's like they are just looking for a reason to pick apart everything they do at this point.

I think that unless you're a Linkin Park fan, you shouldn't expect any band that has been around for over ten years to sound the same or do the same things over and over the entire duration of their career. It's ridiculous.

I think that maybe most people have just simply....grown out of them and they are bitter about not being able to connect to the music in the way that they used too.

But you know, opinions and assholes as they say.

[slimfenix182]

Omg, this. It's funny to me because the only other "fandom" that I come across as they are my 2nd favorite band is MCR who's fans are girls that are not even half the age of Trio fans, the majority of whom I find are grown ass men and they whine more and in a worse way then MCR fans. All they do is baaawwww and complain how every album they put out isn't Goddamnit or Good Mourning.

I think that this is as close as they are going to get to their “classic” sound without literally making another Goddamnit. I think it’s a good mix of the things they have learned and picked up from all of their albums. But I definitely hear more of an “old school” influence in this one then their last two.

I don’t know. I guess I came to the realization long ago that this band will never sound the same on the next album as the last. If you go through their catalog, every album is so much different then the one before. You can hear their gradual progression so clearly in every thing that they do and I LOVE the fact that they don’t shy away from change. I love that they don’t do the same thing over and over. I love the fact that you just NEVER know what to expect with them from every album.


I understand how a lot of people may not like the direction they have taken, but I mean, it’s been what, like a little more then ten years? In that time you have to expect that some exploration and stepping out of the box will be done. I think that what we’re seeing and experiencing is them doing that and trying to find a place where they are comfortable, and naturally that place changes with every album.


I like that they never ever try to cater to what they think people want to hear, but try to make an album that they are happy with and fits into where they are at that point and time.

Some of the things people are saying, it's like they are just looking for a reason to pick apart everything they do at this point.

I think that unless you're a Linkin Park fan, you shouldn't expect any band that has been around for over ten years to sound the same or do the same things over and over the entire duration of their career. It's ridiculous.

I think that maybe most people have just simply....grown out of them and they are bitter about not being able to connect to the music in the way that they used too.

But you know, opinions and assholes as they say.

well-said. the long version of my point haha. I also LOVE that every album has a different feel and vibe. never has a band been so un-deserving of the shit they get. it's like they can not do a fucking thing right to some of their fans. and it annoys the shit out of me. the music they make is completely honest, and they're legit nice dudes. I for one, do not get it. haha, I can actually be at peace with this cause I know SOMEONE feels the same way. I'll love em and defend em forever....and fuck anyone who tries to bring this band down.

[slimfenix182]

What!? They're not poor alcoholics anymore!!?

"Skiba, stay drunk and miserable so I can still connect with your music! wait, what the fuck are you doing? are you progressing as a human being and changing????? how the fuck dare you."

[thehymen77]

At first I was a little let down by this record, but it definitely has begun to grow on me. I'm a huge fan of the songs Dorothy and Fine. The song This Addiction has a huge throwback feeling to it.

[nandersen87]

I think that Dan has surpassed Matt's writing skills for these last trio albums...
agreed

[Stavie Steelo]

I think this album is really good, I want to know what songs you think are boring and why, because I just don't see it. Of course the albums are going to sound different, just like your self you aren't the same person you were in highschool so why would they have the same sound. American Scream, Eating Me Alive, Dead on the Floor, Off the Map, and Draculina are my favorite. I like Skiba and think he did a good job on this album. For me Dan's songs are real hit or miss either I love them or I can't even listen to them. The songs on this album with Dan are all good. I can't wait to hear the unreleased tracks as well. I still am a huge Trio fan and this album I will still get, I think it is a great album and should be rated higher than a 75 I would give it like an 82

[dhelmick]

i didnt even know that the trio put a new album out so im glad i found this review! I will probably love anything the trio does so i will deffinately buy this. I have listened to a few songs and its not quite as good as the old stuff, in my opinion, but it has deffinately been stripped down which is good.

[fobmcrafi6]

Why didn't Fallon write the review for this one? This is rated criminally low.

My Dinosaur Life higher than this? You've gotta be kidding pal
you can t honestly say that less you heard both of them...

but Drew i love your reviews you re most likely the best album reviewer out there to tell us what songs and what albums are what. Once again as every one always tell you awesome review i can connect to the info that you lay out to everyone.

[Betrayal Five]

A once promising band. I used to love them. Stopped listening to them after Crimson, which I really did enjoy. I don't like it when bands go "back" to their "sound"...seems too much like a cop-out or something. If you wanted to change good...don't revert back unless you really want to.

[ROSESfortehDEAD]

Lolz for everyone comparing MCS and Alk3 records!!

Thats like saying, "So I think Jay-Z put out a better record then fall out boy"

:-D

Anyways I really enjoy this release. Ironically after like 3-4 listens, it really has been quite "addicting".

[xapplexpiex]

I might pick this up after class today, even though I miss how they sounded on Godamnit. But progression is a good thing. I liked their last album and Crimson. Awesome review btw.

[IlluminaRecords]

Alkaline Trio is back

Alkaline Trio is kicking off a two-month tour, which begins on February 16 in California, and will proceed to 35 other cities. Along with the tour comes Alkaline Trio’s new album “This Addiction” which is set for release on February 23.

To see more on Alkaline Trio visit Illumina Records Block Party at www.illuminablockparty.com (http://www.illuminablockparty.com)

[Gwytherspoon]

Rock sound gave the album 8/10, and kerrang gave 4ks.

[slimfenix182]

thanks

excellent review Drew. and dead on about Dorothy, fuckin love that song so much. that vibe is why I fell in love with this band.

[RyanLowry]

I love how there seems to be a substantial portion of people on this website who think that Crimson is the best Trio record. Weird.

[bytheslice]

I'm glad they're doing this with Matt Allison. He seemed to always capture the 'Trio's sound just right.

[dhelmick]

I love how there seems to be a substantial portion of people on this website who think that Crimson is the best Trio record. Weird.
Thats weird for me too. I liked crimson but not my favorite, probably my least.

[SanePsychotic]

I love how there seems to be a substantial portion of people on this website who think that Crimson is the best Trio record. Weird.

I think that most hardcore Trio fans would rank Crimson low on the album rating scale. There are some great tunes on Crimson, but a lot of it just falls flat.

[slimfenix182]

Thats weird for me too. I liked crimson but not my favorite, probably my least.

I don't find it weird as while maybe it doesn't fit alot of people's idea of a great "Trio" record, I think it's a great "anybody" record. but it wasn't really personal, lyric-wise....and personal lyrics have been what people love about em.

[dhelmick]

I don't find it weird as while maybe it doesn't fit alot of people's idea of a great "Trio" record, I think it's a great "anybody" record. but it wasn't really personal, lyric-wise....and personal lyrics have been what people love about em.
i didnt mean weird sounding i just meant weird that it is a favorite of a lot of people. I dont know if you misread what i was saying or if im misreading you. id have to agree that it was an anybody record. It just seemed a lot more "alternative rock" to me. i loved time to waste but the rest of the album was just ok for me.

[slimfenix182]

i didnt mean weird sounding i just meant weird that it is a favorite of a lot of people. I dont know if you misread what i was saying or if im misreading you. id have to agree that it was an anybody record.

no, I know what you meant...they had 3 cool videos from that cd, and idk sales figures, but they were on MTV, Fuse, Conan, Craig Ferguson. well exposed, so I'm not surprised at people favoring it. and its a great record (imo of course lol.)

[slimfenix182]

i didnt mean weird sounding i just meant weird that it is a favorite of a lot of people.

and btw Crimson isn't my fav:

From Here To Infirmary
Maybe I'll Catch Fire
Goddamnit
Self-titled LP
Good Mourning
Remains
Crimson
Agony & Irony

in order lol, and yes I know Remains and self-titled aren't proper albums. included em anyway haha.

[Heartcore]

I had to get this off my chest and this seemed like the best place. I love Alkaline Trio and have loved every album they've put out and appreciated them all for different reasons. I do not like This Addiction at all. While I can't speak for the effort that was put forth by the band, as I certainly have no idea, this album simply sounds ill-conceived and lazy. The lyrics are, for a change, boring and extremely cliche. Musically the album is extremely basic and for me it's simply a snoozer. I really have to stress that I want to like this album and I still love this band but I will probably never listen this over any of their other output. If you read this, sorry, it was a rambling lament.

[sdisticsquirrel]

i just got my download from the vinyl pre-order and listening now...
sad to see one of my favorite bands with a score below 80
i get that everyone loves their old material and all, but even with their "maturation" as a band they're still a great band. everyone hates on them because they had the curse of coming up with some amazing material early on in their careers and couldn't surpass it in fans' eyes...
people hate that bands like The Early November (just one example) broke up, but i can only imagine the reactions to their albums if they had stayed together...
Alk3 still put on one of the better shows i've seen...

[slimfenix182]

Great review, though I personally would have rated it higher.

That said, Skiba at his weakest is better than most bands at their best.

Yes to a little higher rating (80 or so, love it but still doesnt compare to early Trio.)

and weak Skiba trumps most bands, yes :)

[tpnations]

I think that Dan has surpassed Matt's writing skills for these last trio albums...
This. I might even go so far as to say Dan was better on Crimson. "Settle for Satin" is tremendous.

Solid review, Drew. Pretty much exactly how I feel. I wish they had just continued on with their progression.

[tpnations]

This album has grown on me. There are a few standout tracks and a few lackluster ones. Dan really outshines Skiba on this one. "Dine Dine My Darling" is fantastic. I wish Dan would knock out an album himself. Can't wait to see them on 3/18! Good job overall...album and review.

Agree 100%. I really enjoy his stuff under The Emergency Room...wish there was a way I could get it on my ipod.

[tpnations]

I think that most hardcore Trio fans would rank Crimson low on the album rating scale. There are some great tunes on Crimson, but a lot of it just falls flat.
"Hardcore Trio fans"? Could you be any more smarmy and condescending? Just because someone likes an album more than you do doesn't mean they are an inferior fan.

[SanePsychotic]

"Hardcore Trio fans"? Could you be any more smarmy and condescending? Just because someone likes an album more than you do doesn't mean they are an inferior fan.

Did I say they were inferior fans? No I did not, so don't put words in my mouth. Generally speaking most hardcore Trio fans tend to favor their earlier albums (or at least up until Good Mourning, whose direction a lot of older fans didn't really care for even though it brought in many new fans). That's just me stating a fact. Crimson's not a horrible album by any means; it's the album that got me into Alkaline Trio. I really don't understand why you are getting an additude with me over something you wrongly inferred.

[tpnations]

Did I say they were inferior fans? No I did not, so don't put words in my mouth. Generally speaking most hardcore Trio fans tend to favor their earlier albums (or at least up until Good Mourning, whose direction a lot of older fans didn't really care for even though it brought in many new fans). That's just me stating a fact. Crimson's not a horrible album by any means; it's the album that got me into Alkaline Trio. I really don't understand why you are getting an additude with me over something you wrongly inferred.
No, that's just you making an assumption. It's obvious that for some reason you think you're better than anyone who falls outside the lines of a "hardcore fan", whatever the hell that even is.

It's just music, who cares what other people like. Just listen to it and enjoy it.

[slimfenix182]

It's obvious that for some reason you think you're better than anyone who falls outside the lines of a "hardcore fan"

I could care less about classifications of fans...I got into them with FHTI, and quickly loved their 1st 3....but if that guy got into them with Crimson, the actual "hardcore fans" wouldnt consider him among their ranks. so chill lol. youre as good a fan as any. youre prob better than a "hardcore fan"...theyre usually jaded and cant accept growth =P

[SanePsychotic]

No, that's just you making an assumption. It's obvious that for some reason you think you're better than anyone who falls outside the lines of a "hardcore fan", whatever the hell that even is.

It's just music, who cares what other people like. Just listen to it and enjoy it.

No, you are wrong. And now I will use the ignore button for the first time ever in my AP history. Thank you.

[tpnations]

No, you are wrong. And now I will use the ignore button for the first time ever in my AP history. Thank you.
You're an idiot.

[tpnations]

I could care less about classifications of fans...I got into them with FHTI, and quickly loved their 1st 3....but if that guy got into them with Crimson, the actual "hardcore fans" wouldnt consider him among their ranks. so chill lol. youre as good a fan as any. youre prob better than a "hardcore fan"...theyre usually jaded and cant accept growth =P
The phrase is "I couldn't care less", and my entire point is how stupid it is that those "hardcore fans" wouldn't accept somone who preferred Crimson among their ranks. It's like me saying that I'm a more hardcore fan than SanePsychotic b/c I was getting drunk in college and listening to Mr. Chainsaw when he was still learning his multiplication tables...who cares right?

But you're right about them being jaded and not accepting growth.

[GelatinBrain]

i totally agree. the emergency room is the only hope i have for these three gentlemen. i hate this record. i think it's totally cheesy. the lyrics are generic and this album is the perfect step for the alkaline trio descend that has been occuring since derek joined the band. fine sounds like a goddamn religious therepeutic song. these drug metaphors have been getting old, matt. he once said right after crimson came out that writing an alkaline trio record is as easy and natural as could possibly be. maybe that is not a good thing, douche bag. i am a drummer and learned a lot from alkaline trio records and this drumming is so goddamn boring it belongs in a cheesy movie. fuck off alkaline trio. i cant believe the amount of credit this record has gotten before the release date.
love,
long time alkaline trio fan with the goddamn tattto on my leg and over 13 shows. peace out alkaline trio.

Go get fucked in the mouth, sexcells.

[sexcells]

Go get fucked in the mouth, sexcells.
hey i understand dude, i backed up alkaline trio for years. Just give it a a few years and you will start to feel the same way.

[slimfenix182]

Go get fucked in the mouth, sexcells.

agreed.

[dhelmick]

Go get fucked in the mouth, sexcells.
i have to agree with what is being said but I would say it in a nice way

[slimfenix182]

i have to agree with what is being said but I would say it in a nice way

it would be nice if fans stopped expecting them to top the 1st 4 albums...its fucking impossible. Derek's drums are a little too straightforward this album. thats my only (very) minor complaint. funny how in A3's case, a "hardcore" fan in actuality is a "fairweather" fan.

[hectorial85]

I love Alk3 so I was stoked to hear any new material. I dig all of the albums after getting into them through FHTI. For what its worth I also think Crimson is great - Time To Waste is a killer intro and songs like Deathbed, Back To Hell and Sadie are among my fave Trio tracks. Agony a& Irony has its moments of greatness too - I Found Away, Love Love, Kiss Kiss, Into the Night and Calling All Skeletons are personal choices.

This Addiction is the logical step for album No. 7. It really is a blend of old and new.
(This Addiction recalls My Friend Peter, Dead On The Floor is a bit like Continental & The American Scream invokes Warbrain). I'm happy with it. Its pretty much what I expected. I didn't notice Derek's drums being straightforward till that was pointed out but now I kinda agree with it. I love the little fun stuff he puts out too (Reaper and Purple Trilogy) - hope theres more of that to come.

The newer stuff is a bit lighter in tone and polished but still a rewarding listen for me. Pity it is so hated on.

[dhelmick]

I love Alk3 so I was stoked to hear any new material. I dig all of the albums after getting into them through FHTI. For what its worth I also think Crimson is great - Time To Waste is a killer intro and songs like Deathbed, Back To Hell and Sadie are among my fave Trio tracks. Agony a& Irony has its moments of greatness too - I Found Away, Love Love, Kiss Kiss, Into the Night and Calling All Skeletons are personal choices.

This Addiction is the logical step for album No. 7. It really is a blend of old and new.
(This Addiction recalls My Friend Peter, Dead On The Floor is a bit like Continental & The American Scream invokes Warbrain). I'm happy with it. Its pretty much what I expected. I didn't notice Derek's drums being straightforward till that was pointed out but now I kinda agree with it. I love the little fun stuff he puts out too (Reaper and Purple Trilogy) - hope theres more of that to come.

The newer stuff is a bit lighter in tone and polished but still a rewarding listen for me. Pity it is so hated on.
it is lighter and more polished but it isnt as bad as every one makes it out to be. i think people just need to chill out or make a record better than the one they are complaining about.

[slimfenix182]

it is lighter and more polished but it isnt as bad as every one makes it out to be. i think people just need to chill out or make a record better than the one they are complaining about.

I'm glad for this record. new songs are great live. like the review says, its an A3 punk rock record. I miss punk, and theres not too much out there now. and I love how their albums are all distinctly different, but maintain the A3 vibe.

[PirateSkater182]

This albums damn good. I don't give a shit.

[vale93kotor]

Really like this album

[SleeperCell]

I really enjoyed this album, to me Alkaline Trio are one of the most consistent bands around, some of their best lyrics to date exist on this album.

[alcoholismcures]

I was searching on Google about Alcoholism addictions because i want to write down some contents and I found this website and article. Really informative and worth reading. I would like to give reference of this article in my contents on this website.

http://www.alcoholismcures.com

Thanks for doing such brilliant work.

Regards,
Jeanette Lloyd-Stern

[Searos]

I actually got to say this album is still as good as the day it first came out. I know a lot of people wish Matt had his voice back from their older records but honestly I find it better now. His voice has a stronger punk rock sound. The album has a good combo of new and old and is one of A3's best albums because of that and the personal lyrics. I know a lot will disagree but coming back to the album really is enjoyable. I like it the same way I like From Here To Infirmary and Good Mourning