Bayside - Shudder

[Chris Fallon]

Bayside - Shudder
Record Label: Victory Records
Release Date: September 30, 2008

The fine balance between utter disdain and hopelessness with relentless apathy is essentially what makes Long Island's Bayside such an unclassifiable rock band. Their combination of depressing emo-centric lyricism and moody exteriors have made them one of the most easy-to-relate-to bands on the Victory roster (after all, how many of us can truly relate to the "bludgeoning" riffs and double-bass drum kicks of metalcore's elite, hmm?). Take the dark melodic contours of Alkaline Trio, throw in the hazy optimism of Smoking Popes and add a dash of sincere melancholy (with some wicked wit for good measure), and you've got your basic Bayside sound.

With record number four (their third total release of 2008), Shudder, Bayside continues to use the same ingredients in their recipe, because as the old adage goes, if it ain't broke... why fix it? Bayside has a perfectly-tuned sound with vocalist Anthony Raneri's indistinguishable pipes (at times sounding like a blend of Josh Caterer and Aaron Weiss) and guitars that wail one minute and drop down the next. The only real problem with Shudder, which is a more optimistic record than their first two, is that it doesn't retain enough of the anthemic personal triumphs the band showcased on 2007's The Walking Wounded; the anthems are certainly here, however they begin to die off in the middle somewhere (while exceptional, "I Can't Go On" steals away a bit of the energy on the first half). In due time, perhaps this new addition to their discography will be their rallying cry, with "A Call to Arms" and "Roshambo (Rock, Paper, Scissors)" soon becoming emblazoned theme songs for the rapidly rebelling youth in this rapidly retrogressive time.

The main focus here is what the song's say, who they speak to - which is, frankly... all of us. They are melancholy, yet realized; peppered with ridicule and self-doubt, yet firmly designed to relinquish ourselves from exhaustion of self and to simply achieve. Raneri writes songs for those of us still finding our place in the world, young and old, adding dashes of moody pop and hard-rockin' solos for what I'd prefer to call "goddamn awesome measure". Building on the emotion that stems from not only the band's history, but from their acoustic work ("Moceanu") - where the songs always come off in a better light - Shudder is 42 minutes of triumph over tragedy, resurgence over pain, happiness over heartbreak. On "I Can't Go On," a sprawling canvas of emotional trajectory, Raneri woefully sings out, "Where love is crap, emotion speaks / for us all / What's really right? / Who's who to say?" While there is certainly allegations of animosity here, there's always light at the end of the tunnel (for lack of a better cliche) in Raneri's songwriting. "My mom always said I was named for a saint / but I never felt I was blessed," he cries out on first single "No One Understands," later adding, "It gets harder to believe, it gets harder but / be honest / if the sun don't shine tomorrow, we'll survive." Shudder is poignant and heartfelt in not only its words, but alas, in the way the entire process is conceived.

Jack O'Shea continues to be the driving force under Raneri's wings, picking up the energy when things begin to get slow, never allowing these tracks to drag (take "Boy," for example, playing off the rhythm the rest of the band lays down). Nick Ghanbarian's floor-shaking bass playing only fires up the moody structure even more, playing well of O'Shea's energy, yet keeping everything mysterious ("A Call to Arms"). Chris Guglielmo manages to orchestrate the rhythms nice and tight, establishing the tone of each track. The band is skillfully adept at allowing each song to breathe and sound natural, never cluttered by anything that will tinker with the integrity of Raneri's songwriting.

The well-oiled machine that made The Walking Wounded continues to chug right along, effectively showing that Shudder may become a sleeper magnet with fans who relate to the way Bayside constructs their broody, muscular pop songs well-hidden under a cloak of shadows and light. Haunting, aggressive, packed with melody - Shudder is another fine step in the right direction for Bayside, even if it might cover the same kind of ground the band has laid claims to.

They say Bayside is a cult - if that's true: drink up the punch, put on the robes and dance to the music, because if you haven't already... you're missing out on hell of a shindig.

Bayside's The Walking Wounded; Alkaline Trio's Agony & Irony; Smoking Popes' Get Fired; Weezer's Pinkerton"The Ghost of St. Valentine," "Roshambo (Rock, Paper, Scissors)" and "Moceanu"

1. Boy
2. The Ghost of St. Valentine
3. No One Understands
4. What and What Not
5. A Call to Arms
6. I Can't Go On
7. Demons
8. Have Fun Storming The Castle
9. Howard
10. Roshambo (Rock, Paper, Scissors)
11. I Think I'll Be Ok
12. MoceanuAnthony Raneri: lead vocals/rhythm guitar
Nick Ghanbarian: bass/backing vocals
Jack O'Shea: lead guitar/backing vocals
Chris Guglielmo: drums

Official Site (http://www.baysideisacult.com) | Official Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/bayside)Amazon MP3 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GH3LPM?ie=UTF8&tag=absolutepun02-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001GH3LPM)

[Chris Fallon]

I know I've been giving some rather exceptional scores recently, but this is definitely an album that improves with each and every listen -- and I can say my score is a good indication of how I feel after many, many listens and deep considerations about the disc itself.

[Adrian Villagomez]

Late night user review editors posting reviews ftw!

"They say Bayside is a cult - if that's true: drink up the punch, put on the robes and dance to the music, because if you haven't already... you're missing out on hell of a shindig."

I like this ^. I've only listened to Bayside on their split EP with Name Taken though - not sure how much I'd like them now.

[Chris Fallon]

Late night user review editors posting reviews ftw!

"They say Bayside is a cult - if that's true: drink up the punch, put on the robes and dance to the music, because if you haven't already... you're missing out on hell of a shindig."

I like this ^. I've only listened to Bayside on their split EP with Name Taken though - not sure how much I'd like them now.
If you're a newbie to Bayside, it's easier to go through their whole catalog to see how far their darker-tinged pop has come since the early part of this millennium. I could see you digging a few of their songs for sure -- "Moceanu" or "Don't Call Me Peanut," for example.

I'm sure you can check some of it out on last.fm -- whenever you get the chance :biggrin:

[TMS2787]

I'm really looking forward to this album (easily one of most anticpaited of 2008, on my most anticpaited Tuesday on '08). Well written review and I must say I completey agree with what you said about them.

[tommyhaych]

If you're a newbie to Bayside, it's easier to go through their whole catalog to see how far their darker-tinged pop has come since the early part of this millennium. I could see you digging a few of their songs for sure -- "Moceanu" or "Don't Call Me Peanut," for example.

I'm sure you can check some of it out on last.fm -- whenever you get the chance :biggrin:

I second this. Bayside are like a book - they're a lot easier to love from the beginning.

[LongDistanceDrunk]

I know I've been giving some rather exceptional scores recently, but this is definitely an album that improves with each and every listen -- and I can say my score is a good indication of how I feel after many, many listens and deep considerations about the disc itself.

Great review. I agree it gets better with each listen. I am disappointed you didn't mention the song "Howard." It is the catchiest song on the album as well as one of my favorites. I still like The Walking Wounded a lot more but this is still an amazing album.

[WakeUpBlondie]

I love this album I think it might be my airy. This band gets better after each release.

[Klatzke]

I've tried and tried to get into them but I find them incredibly boring.

[neverknew79]

I really enjoy this album. Boy is my friend's favorite song on the album but I really like "Have Fun Storming the Castle" and "Howard". And I agree with your opinion about the middle of the album. The song "I Can't Go On" just doesn't live up to the other songs. The last song really annoys me too haha. I don't like how he spells out the words. I like this album way more then The Walking Wounded though. I am anxious to see what song they will be playing on their tour. I hope they don't play all new stuff. They have to through in "Don't Call Me Peanut" or "Alcohol for Alter Boys". And every time I have seen them, they've played "Blame It On Bad Luck" which is one of my all-time favorites. I am super stoked for their show.
:overhead:

[Indoor Living]

great cd. it's no walking wounded. but it holds its own.

[popdisaster00]

what a fanstastic review, chris. congrats. it's a great cd

[Mochem]

Good review. I agree with the score, but I think "Boy" is easily the best song (or at least it's my favorite).

[Alex DiVincenzo]

This band just never disappoints.

[alice+interiors]

mybreakingpoint is jerking.

[queenofcrouton]

It's funny that you specifically mentioned The Walking Wounded, as I disliked that album but I adore this one.

I listened to this almost exclusively for a week after I downloaded it.

[get up kidd]

great cd. it's no walking wounded. but it holds its own.

agree 100%

[RyanSadis]

yo i got this sh*t.. it took a little getting used to (learning the hooks) but that shit is poppin off

[newfoundmichael]

This might be your best review I have ever read. You were spot on with the review, the score, and especially the choice tracks. Very nice work.

[somattrightnow]

shudder has everything that made the self titled album incredible, no one ever mentions that cd...

[katewithoutthee]

I've been a huge Bayside fan for years, but this album was disappointing. It was not the huge breakthrough of improvement that "The Walking Wounded" was..it was pretty much the exact same album but not as exciting.

[permanentdan]

i can't wait to pick this up.

[jbaseball44]

Nice review Mr. Fallon. I like "Howard" a lot for some reason

[B-Bones]

I know I've been giving some rather exceptional scores recently, but this is definitely an album that improves with each and every listen -- and I can say my score is a good indication of how I feel after many, many listens and deep considerations about the disc itself.

Hey Chris, great review. I really like your writing style. Keep it up.

[live.]

long island represent. i actually chilled with these guys during the recording process. they were practicing in this little studio we call "the box". played Beirut. lol

[friskycurtain]

So far, from the leaked version of the album I heard, I am sorta disappointied with this album....there are some really awesome songs on the album (Boy, I Think I'll Be Ok, The Ghost of St. Valentine) but this album unlike The Walking Wounded and their self-titled album is not one that I can pop in my CD player and listen to all the way through which really sucks....Tracks like Roshambo (Rock, Paper, Scissors) and Have Fun Storming The Castle just don't do it for me....maybe my opinion will change when I purchase an actual copy of the album

[TheLoyalVox]

there isn't one bayside song that i don't like.

[SSLYBY]

shudder has everything that made the self titled album incredible, no one ever mentions that cd...

Self titled is so great.

[PubeyLewis]

I didn't think it was as good as walking wounded (as that album is seriously really really good), but the more I listen to Shudder the better it gets. As everyone says, Bayside is a band that everyone can get in to. The only track I hated was the last one, it just seemed a little dippy to me. But, hey! They still are a band that if you have not listened to you, need to!

[Drew Beringer]

I like the band and the new album is okay, I need to spend more time with it. It's no TWW though, that's for sure.

[PubeyLewis]

BTW if you hated The Walking Wounded, you must hate good melodies.

[reissgoespunk]

I preferred The Walking Wounded.

[thesiz]

long time bayside fan...
and ive listened to this album dozens of times front to back.
it doesnt do much for me.
i think the music is great, the lyrics and subject matter are predictable and at times contradictory.

[heyozzie]

am i the only one that thinks sirens and condolences is their best cd? walking wounded is top notch for sure, but theres just something about s&c that really hits home; its just very dark and cool. i do like shudder a lot, but for me there doesn't seem to be any stand out tracks yet, and i found myself critiquing some of the songs, which i usually never do with bands, thinking a particular song should kick it into high gear for example (i'm in my office and can't listen to music, so i can't site the song i'm thinking of). all in all, i still love this band and always will.

[theyellowdart]

It's crazy how many different opinions there are for this album.

Personally i'm really impressed, but not surprised. These guys, I'd say, are one of the best bands out there right now. I was sure they weren't going to be able to release anything as good as TWW but after a whole bunch of listens, i really think they have.
This album absolutely rules.

[MyWorldEntire]

I'm not sure if I I'm going to end up liking Shudder more than the Walking Wounded, but it's getting better with every listen.

[rob_mylo]

yummy bayside

[Sic Transit Zeb]

TWW>Shudder

But Shudder is really, really good.

[Here It Goes]

In what way is Bayside a cult? I haven't listened to a lot of their stuff, but from what I've heard, they're average at best. A cult?

[LongDistanceDrunk]

am i the only one that thinks sirens and condolences is their best cd? walking wounded is top notch for sure, but theres just something about s&c that really hits home; its just very dark and cool. i do like shudder a lot, but for me there doesn't seem to be any stand out tracks yet, and i found myself critiquing some of the songs, which i usually never do with bands, thinking a particular song should kick it into high gear for example (i'm in my office and can't listen to music, so i can't site the song i'm thinking of). all in all, i still love this band and always will.

I agree about Sirens and Condolences. Walking Wounded used to me my favorite but S & C is slowly eclipsing it. I used to not like it but I have been listening to it alot lately and of the lyrics are amazing and describe perfectly how I am feeling right now. They really hit home foe me. It is their darkest record lyrically which I like.

[ddb43]

Can't wait for this to come out! I saw them live w/ Alk3 & they were really good. Nice review.

[Greg.Kushlan]

I'm having trouble getting into this album, I'm going to give it a few more spins before I decide on a rating.

[Goat01]

I cannot wait to get this record!!!!

[Indoor Living]

agree 100%

wow. i'm surprised i didn't get ripped on first. ha.

[Nathan Lint]

Great Review, as always Chris.

In my opinion, while I love everything Bayside has ever done, i'm quite shocked people like The Walking Wounded more than this. I think it's something like this (for f/l) Sirens > Bayside > Shudder > Walking Wounded. While I love the walking wounded, it's the only bayside record I got burnt out on, and it wasn't nearly as dark as the others. Although, Landing Feet First is one of my favorite Bayside tracks of all time.

On this record, my favorites have to be St. Valentines, Howard, and Moceanu.

[Mattylikesfilms]

I know I've been giving some rather exceptional scores recently, but this is definitely an album that improves with each and every listen -- and I can say my score is a good indication of how I feel after many, many listens and deep considerations about the disc itself.

yeah i love bayside but when i first heard this theres only like 3 tracks i liked. now its starting to grow on me... it sucks this is the first release where i had to try and like it.

[grimis16]

i like it, but it doesnt match their last two. imo, Bayside>Walking Wounded>Shudder>Sirens>>>>acoustic cd.

Going to see these guys in san fran next month, cant wait

[iseethesun123]

Hated this record. I found it incredibly boring. Shame on me. I loved previous releases

[at100xmph]

I've tried and tried to get into them but I find them incredibly boring.

ew i hope i never meet you in real life. ridiculous comment.

[at100xmph]

Great Review, as always Chris.

In my opinion, while I love everything Bayside has ever done, i'm quite shocked people like The Walking Wounded more than this. I think it's something like this (for f/l) Sirens > Bayside > Shudder > Walking Wounded. While I love the walking wounded, it's the only bayside record I got burnt out on, and it wasn't nearly as dark as the others. Although, Landing Feet First is one of my favorite Bayside tracks of all time.

On this record, my favorites have to be St. Valentines, Howard, and Moceanu.

i second everything you've said. way to put it.

[Klatzke]

ew i hope i never meet you in real life. ridiculous comment.
Wow.

[serpent_sky]

I know I've been giving some rather exceptional scores recently, but this is definitely an album that improves with each and every listen -- and I can say my score is a good indication of how I feel after many, many listens and deep considerations about the disc itself.

Absolutely -- every listen, there's something new to find in this disc.

I think the deal will be sealed when the songs start getting played/heard/appreciated live -- that energy will just blow this album over the top.

It took a couple of listens for me to say "yes, this is perfect to follow up The Walking Wounded", which is a HELL Of an album to have to follow-up, but... the lyrics are divine and this is just a gorgeously written and heart-wrenching album that works for me on just about every level.

I've had "No One Understands" in my head all day, which is never a bad sign when it comes to an album you've only heard for a few days, as well.... So far, it's my favorite of 2008.

[SteveD]

Good review.

Key tracks for me:

The first five songs........

[Big_Guy]

such a consistent band.

I can't say I listen to them all the time, but when I do, it's always a pleasure

[PubeyLewis]

I didn't really like the album the first play btw, but you do need to listen to it more than once. Seriously, it's an album the more I listen to it the more I like it.

[animalfriend]

I agree with the boring comment, guess I don't get it.

[animalfriend]

I didn't really like the album the first play btw, but you do need to listen to it more than once. Seriously, it's an album the more I listen to it the more I like it.

isn't that like hitting your head with a hammer?? after doing 40 or 50 times, it doesn't hurt as bad.....

[kristanxmarie]

i absolutely love this band. the walking wounded was quite a disappointment to me, so this was a relief to see that the amazing band i knew and loved was back. 'boy' is by far my favorite song. incredible.

[Autumns Fall]

Very nice, can't wait to own the album

[ZoSo1886]

I know I've been giving some rather exceptional scores recently, but this is definitely an album that improves with each and every listen -- and I can say my score is a good indication of how I feel after many, many listens and deep considerations about the disc itself.


This album absolutely grows on you after many listens. I did not want anything to do with it after the first spin, but now i cannot get enough!

[ZoSo1886]

Good review.

Key tracks for me:

The first five songs........


i feel the same way, but the whole album is very solid

[Co and Ca]

Can't wait to hear this. Also, I'm seeing them on Halloween. That shall rock balls!

[drudo182]

Boy is my favorite track.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

i feel the same way, but the whole album is very solid

3rd

[get up kidd]

wow. i'm surprised i didn't get ripped on first. ha.


TWW is a fucking great cd. Love that shit. =D

[Blake Solomon]

after a few listens to this, nothing has really stuck with me except the ending chorus of "Boy," which was to be expected since I'm a sucker for that sound. But other than that I think this is my least favorite record of theirs.

[GuitarR0cker1]

Nice review, I need to pick this up sometime. I really enjoyed all of Bayside's albums except for The Walking Wounded which i thought was mediocre.

[SteveD]

after a few listens to this, nothing has really stuck with me except the ending chorus of "Boy," which was to be expected since I'm a sucker for that sound. But other than that I think this is my least favorite record of theirs.

Agreed. Good album, worst full length from them.

[mr chainsaw]

They really tried to be the Smoking Popes on this album.

This was a big improvement on the Walking Wounded, but comes nowhere near any of their previous efforts.

For me, this album actually became less appealing after multiple listens.

[Twizx]

love bayside they rool.

[Indoor Living]

TWW is a fucking great cd. Love that shit. =D


yeah dude. it's fucking amazing. i saw them in concert in support of that cd. it was awesome.

[jbaseball44]

They really tried to be the Smoking Popes on this album.

This was a big improvement on the Walking Wounded, but comes nowhere near any of their previous efforts.

For me, this album actually became less appealing after multiple listens.
Agree with the statement in bold. I only really liked two songs on TWW and this comes nowhere near Sirens

[mr chainsaw]

Agree with the statement in bold. I only really liked two songs on TWW and this comes nowhere near Sirens

Yeah same here, the only songs worth a second listen were The Walking Wounded and Dear Your Holiness.

I remember seeing them live right after Sirens came out and they played almost the whole album plus the name taken split songs. So good.

[jbaseball44]

Yeah same here, the only songs worth a second listen were The Walking Wounded and Dear Your Holiness.

I remember seeing them live right after Sirens came out and they played almost the whole album plus the name taken split songs. So good.
I would of loved to see them play all of Sirens. I have seen them twice but once was in support of the s/t and another was in support of tww.

[slimfenix182]

I would of loved to see them play all of Sirens. I have seen them twice but once was in support of the s/t and another was in support of tww.

saw them on warped in support of Sirens...got to talk with Anthony for a while (before anyone knew them) such a great show. still have a drumstick they gave me. the best warped performances were always on the tiny stages imo....

[Craftsy21]

think the score you gave is probably a bit high for my opinion.. i'd rate this about a 6-7... their last two have been more in the 8.5 range for me.. but that's just me, this one is missing something and i still can't figure out what exactly.

[nashiscash1324]

this is my first bayside album and i'm pissed i've been missing out for so long. awesome review and album

[Clark]

Excellent, excellent, excellent review.

I can't wait to hear this album. I love all of their albums equally and I like them more with each listen.

[RetardedInLove]

shudder has everything that made the self titled album incredible, no one ever mentions that cd...

I am so glad you said that, it makes me so much more excited for this album now. I think self-titled is their best, the Walking Wounded was good but the last three songs really drag it down.

[Chris Fallon]

Meh, to each their own ... but I believe Bayside is one of the most honest, natural and cohesive rock acts on the scene right now. Their melodies continue to get better, and some people just don't seem to want to look past the fact they have developed a hell of a lot in a short amount of time. Maybe that's the thing - it's been too quick a climb for the band. Considering how much they have all been through since their inception, I like that Anthony has taken his influences and worn them proudly. It's evident their songwriting is settled in a mid-90's emo-punk fashion with pop-punk melodies ... and I believe this album will be their Pinkerton. One that is vastly unappreciated for years before becoming arguably their finest hour.

[Adrian Villagomez]

Meh, to each their own ... but I believe Bayside is one of the most honest, natural and cohesive rock acts on the scene right now. Their melodies continue to get better, and some people just don't seem to want to look past the fact they have developed a hell of a lot in a short amount of time. Maybe that's the thing - it's been too quick a climb for the band. Considering how much they have all been through since their inception, I like that Anthony has taken his influences and worn them proudly. It's evident their songwriting is settled in a mid-90's emo-punk fashion with pop-punk melodies ... and I believe this album will be their Pinkerton. One that is vastly unappreciated for years before becoming arguably their finest hour.Wow, this statement speaks volumes to me.

[Chris Fallon]

Wow, this statement speaks volumes to me.
Haha, I know it does - me too, for Pinkerton remains my essential Weezer album. One of my all-time favorites, easily.

This seems like it will always tag along last in their discography for a few years, but over time, I honestly believe people will give it more of a chance and hear what I hear - terrific melodies layered over organic sounds that don't necessarily capture the ear's attention at first, but eventually will.

To me, "Moceanu" is a snappier version of "Butterfly" -- it's all very honest songwriting from the singer's own pratfalls, mishaps and thought processes.

[Imperfektion]

awesome album and excellent review. i can't wait till this comes out.

[daygreen89]

i really dig this album, it makes me proud to have their tattoo on me

[Plunk]

I've never really gotten into Bayside, and never really understood what's so special about them. The voice instantly makes me want to sleep, it's strange, it seems like there isn't any energy at all.
It's just my opinion, I'm not trying to troll or anything, and I have no problem with them and the fact that obviously a lot of people love them.

[CTMarshall]

Loved The Walking Wounded and I'm giving this new one a listen on Myspace right now...I'm loving it! Upon first listen, Howard is a great song - atleast it's the one that sticks out to me. None of the others disappoint. Bayside deserves the attention they are getting and more!

[rebekahhh]

excellent review. so stoked to hear these songs live!

[xjdizzle]

I've tried and tried to get into them but I find them incredibly boring.

There highly melodic punk like Smoking popes. This album reminds me of Weezer a bit too.
There alot better than the new so called catchy pop rock bands than say All time low,FTSk, and the list goes on. It al depends what you refer to as boring about them.

[xjdizzle]

Meh, to each their own ... but I believe Bayside is one of the most honest, natural and cohesive rock acts on the scene right now. Their melodies continue to get better, and some people just don't seem to want to look past the fact they have developed a hell of a lot in a short amount of time. Maybe that's the thing - it's been too quick a climb for the band. Considering how much they have all been through since their inception, I like that Anthony has taken his influences and worn them proudly. It's evident their songwriting is settled in a mid-90's emo-punk fashion with pop-punk melodies ... and I believe this album will be their Pinkerton. One that is vastly unappreciated for years before becoming arguably their finest hour.

I totally agree with what your saying .. That was an amazing post ..everything i wanted pointed out.
People need to realize.. Bayside has old school punk influences they are very diffrent than today's
Pop punk Boy bands..and its a blessing that they refuse to fall into music trends ..
There true to themselves and their fans and i cant say that about the recent bands coming out.

[xjdizzle]

I've never really gotten into Bayside, and never really understood what's so special about them. The voice instantly makes me want to sleep, it's strange, it seems like there isn't any energy at all.
It's just my opinion, I'm not trying to troll or anything, and I have no problem with them and the fact that obviously a lot of people love them.

Im sick of having to explain.. If you goto a Bayside show u woont be standing still if u get in the crowd. There one of the only bands sticking to the main roots of pop punk.
Im sure u wont find another band out there that realy stays true to the punk genre.

And please dont say All Time Low. If you really listen close to Bayside youl know they are a unique band. I think you should be thankful theres still a few creative ,quality bands like Bayside still around. Like Thrice,Rise against ,Thursday etc.

I woulnt want the future of punk to be what current trendy bands are today....

[DaveZeroZero]

It was a great album - an improvement on TWW, I'd say.

[Plunk]

Im sick of having to explain.. If you goto a Bayside show u woont be standing still if u get in the crowd. There one of the only bands sticking to the main roots of pop punk.
Im sure u wont find another band out there that realy stays true to the punk genre.

And please dont say All Time Low. If you really listen close to Bayside youl know they are a unique band. I think you should be thankful theres still a few creative ,quality bands like Bayside still around. Like Thrice,Rise against ,Thursday etc.

I woulnt want the future of punk to be what current trendy bands are today....
I was just expressing my opinion, I totally respect them, don't worry.:-) And I fucking hate All Time Low and all that new shitty pop punk scene.

[JimmyIymmiJ]

Great review. Like a log of people said, I didn't like Shudder that much the first time I heard it, but with repeat listens I just can't get it out of my head. It's been very addictive. It's too early for me to give it any specific number in their discography, but right now I think it's absolutely awesome.

[Mattylikesfilms]

This album is def. A grower. I love bayside and after the near perfect release, TWW, I had huge expectations..

So when I finally heard shudder I was underwhelmed. But with each listen I like it more and more.

Call to arms,boy,roshambo,I can't go on, and howard are all legit Imo

[Mattylikesfilms]

It was a great album - an improvement on TWW, I'd say.

I'm beyond shocked at all the negative comments on TWW I seriously have no clue how ANY bayside fan couldn't like at least half the songs on that record. I think the lyrics were insanely good on TWW too I mean look at (un)popular science... great stuff. Just sayinnnn

[DaveZeroZero]

I'm beyond shocked at all the negative comments on TWW I seriously have no clue how ANY bayside fan couldn't like at least half the songs on that record. I think the lyrics were insanely good on TWW too I mean look at (un)popular science... great stuff. Just sayinnnn
it wasn't (un)popular science, it was (pop)ular science, was it not?

but yes, lyrically, TWW was good, I just didn't like the feel of it. It was a bit tacky, really.

[jbaseball44]

Two good songs on TWW: "They're NOT Horses, They're Unicorns" and "Carry On" (you could argue "The Walking Wounded" and "Dear Your Holiness"). I have never seen the attractions to "(Pop)ular Science"

[Mattylikesfilms]

it wasn't (un)popular science, it was (pop)ular science, was it not?

but yes, lyrically, TWW was good, I just didn't like the feel of it. It was a bit tacky, really.

oh yeah your right haha


and i guess everyones diff. i thought it had a good portion of their best material to date!

[DaveZeroZero]

oh yeah your right haha


and i guess everyones diff. i thought it had a good portion of their best material to date!
*you're

but I still say that it paled in comparison to their first 2 full lengths.

[jbaseball44]

*you're

but I still say that it paled in comparison to their first 2 full lengths.
Sirens - Acoustic - S/T - Shudder - TWW

[DaveZeroZero]

Sirens - Acoustic - S/T - Shudder - TWW
That's a reasonable order - I haven't picked up the acoustic CD yet, though.

[jbaseball44]

That's a reasonable order - I haven't picked up the acoustic CD yet, though.
You should definitely pick it up, i think it contains some of their most heartfelt, inspiring work. Winter is great and it pays perfect tribute to Johnny Beatz.

[xjdizzle]

I was just expressing my opinion, I totally respect them, don't worry.:-) And I fucking hate All Time Low and all that new shitty pop punk scene.

Yea thats fine man. That why we blog on here. Thank you ! sumone thats not blind and sees whats in front of them .That new poppy crap isnt even close to being punk anymore.Its just meaningless garbage.

[Plunk]

Yea thats fine man. That why we blog on here. Thank you ! sumone thats not blind and sees whats in front of them .That new poppy crap isnt even close to being punk anymore.Its just meaningless garbage.
It's closer to boy bands than anything else...:-/

[triggerthesound]

i thought instantly this is my least favorite bayside album after one listen
i hope it catches on though

[jbaseball44]

It has been growing on me the more i listen to it. Boy, Ghost of St. Valentine, Howard, Have Fun Storming the Castle, Rochambo, and Moceanu are all good.

[JimmyIymmiJ]

i thought instantly this is my least favorite bayside album after one listen
i hope it catches on though

I thought the same thing when I heard it the first time, and it's definitely grown on me. Hopefully it does the same for you.

[Boadrummer]

My CD's came today. Live at the Social Club is awesome. This album is fantastic. They just get better and better.

[renzenkuken]

This really is an awesome album, though not as good as TWW
IMO Sirens>Bayside=Acoustic>shudder>TWW
bayside FTW

[DaveZeroZero]

This really is an awesome album, though not as good as TWW
IMO Sirens>Bayside=Acoustic>shudder>TWW
bayside FTW
wait, it's not as good as TWW but you still think that shudder > TWW? What?

[tipoftheiceberg]

If you're a newbie to Bayside, it's easier to go through their whole catalog to see how far their darker-tinged pop has come since the early part of this millennium. I could see you digging a few of their songs for sure -- "Moceanu" or "Don't Call Me Peanut," for example.

I'm sure you can check some of it out on last.fm -- whenever you get the chance :biggrin:

personally, the acoustic album is what sold me on the band
i never got into them much but then i heard "Megan" and it completely changed my view (even though it is a cover)
now they are definitely one of my favorites

[RetardedInLove]

This album is great, it's super catchy but it is much deeper than a bunch of catchy songs. I am surprised at how good it really is. I definitely didn't expect much since The Walking Wounded left a lot to be desired (at least to me) but this is so much better!

[Billy Da Mute]

very nice review chris. I'm debating which to pick up as I only have cash for one...this or Glass Passenger

[saofan_315]

sirens>s/t>shudder=tww>acoustic

[aesopsphere]

does anyone know if bayside got a new singer? I like the new album but his voice is nowhere near as interesting and emotion grabbing as their previous efforts. almost like if this is the same singer trying to sound like the smoking popes.

these are my thoughts on bayside's albums:

sirens: solid B starter album nothing mind blowing but not a bad song
S/T: amazing
Walking: First four songs blow my mind and I can't listen to any other tracks completely through I think they r so bad
Shutter: good but sounds like a different band. Can't get behind it as much emotionaly but appreciante on an artistic standpoint.

[DaveZeroZero]

does anyone know if bayside got a new singer? I like the new album but his voice is nowhere near as interesting and emotion grabbing as their previous efforts. almost like if this is the same singer trying to sound like the smoking popes.

these are my thoughts on bayside's albums:

sirens: solid B starter album nothing mind blowing but not a bad song
S/T: amazing
Walking: First four songs blow my mind and I can't listen to any other tracks completely through I think they r so bad
Shutter: good but sounds like a different band. Can't get behind it as much emotionaly but appreciante on an artistic standpoint.
No, it's still Anthony.

Oh, and the new album's called Shudder, not Shutter.

*emotionally
*appreciate
*from an artistic standpoint

[slimfenix182]

fucking love this album more and more with each listen. going through a shitty time right now, and I can tell "I can't go on" is going to be my "adam's song" for this decade. that song got me through some shit back in the day.

[corybratt]

Anyone here heard ot have the itunes exclusive song from Shudder yet?

[smacystacy763]

I really should get on this!

[sajidy]

It's a solid album. Definitely not as varied as The Walking Wounded though. My only complaint is the boring booklet and the atrocious and boring "art".

[youareallfreaks]

this is my AOTY

[tommyhaych]

I wish they'd learn some more guitar variations. I'm sick to death of the same 2-riff-intro that has appeared on TWW and now this.

It's honestly something that I can let go of when it comes to this band.

[SeanEBoy2686]

I've listened to the album a couple times so it's too early to say where it ranks among Bayside releases, but it's a very solid album on it's own.

It's cool to look at their transformation in a lyrical sense over the course of their discography. From 'Masterpiece' to 'Devotion & Desire' to 'I And I' to 'No One Understands'.

[klawansie7]

i wasn't sure i was going to like this cd because i was never a huge fan of their other stuff, but "no one understands" was just so catchy i decided to give it a try, and i am so addicted.
each time i listen i hear a new lyric that i love or a beat that is incredible.
the way "moceanu" is written is gorgeous.

[Nightmare0088]

One of the best albums I have ever heard! They are amazing! Thanks Raneri for those amazing lyrics,your music keeps me alive!

[Nightmare0088]

Who is Howard Hughes?

[DaveZeroZero]

Who is Howard Hughes?
google him. Famous entrepreneur.

[jbaseball44]

Who is Howard Hughes?
Watch The Aviator.

[silentjslivjak]

i really really like the lyrics though. they are clear without being obvious.

Random note: when i saw them with four year strong, FYS played the opening breakdown-type intro of "they're not horses, they're unicorns" before launching into *i'm pretty sure* bada bing wit a pipe. all the bayside fans in attendance went fucking nuts.

[the best zombie]

Great review. I agree it gets better with each listen. I am disappointed you didn't mention the song "Howard." It is the catchiest song on the album as well as one of my favorites. I still like The Walking Wounded a lot more but this is still an amazing album.

^That goes double for me in all respects.

[Uwe Blab]

Great, great album. I hated the last track at first, but it's really grown on me. I think I've already listened to it more than the Walking Wounded.

[RSCogar]

This band just never disappoints.
agreed.

[b.dock.isacult]

this album is great new addition to baysides rap sheet..

ive loved bayside since the split album and those dark more emo than not songs still kick ass today but this is more of an apealing album to most mainstream fans... witch you cant hate on a band for wanting to make the money thats what the bottom line is... i love this album..but i still will remain listening to the selftitled album mostly..but no doubt in my mind that i will sing along when they play these new ballads at the next show!!!!


anthony raneri is my hero>>>

[b.dock.isacult]

I wish they'd learn some more guitar variations. I'm sick to death of the same 2-riff-intro that has appeared on TWW and now this.

It's honestly something that I can let go of when it comes to this band.
wow you make a cd and make it big ******... just cause you like more complicated intros doesnt mean shit fuck head

[c_rob2700]

The way you described Bayside's sound is so perfect. Fantastic review

[drakey]

In what way is Bayside a cult? I haven't listened to a lot of their stuff, but from what I've heard, they're average at best. A cult?
It's because of their angst-driven fanbase that is drawn by early albums such as their self-titled (released by Victory at the same time Silverstein's "Discovering The Waterfront" and Hawthorne Heights' "The Silence In Black And White" were released). Upon hearing Bayside's songs, they easily see them as anthems. Heartbreak, alcoholism, religious corruption, and a basically shitty teenage expirience. It's all there. Bayside's unpolished vocals are supported by their catchy guitar riffs, and for a pop-rock band, you definately can't say their more image than talent. So that keeps the fans hooked. A Bayside fan NOW is a Bayside fan forever and it seems as if they can do no wrong. That is pretty mcuh how they've become a cult in the eyes and hearts of the listeners who adore their sound, and the messages inside it.

[DaveZeroZero]

It's because of their angst-driven fanbase that is drawn by early albums such as their self-titled (released by Victory at the same time Silverstein's "Discovering The Waterfront" and Hawthorne Heights' "The Silence In Black And White" were released). Upon hearing Bayside's songs, they easily see them as anthems. Heartbreak, alcoholism, religious corruption, and a basically shitty teenage expirience. It's all there. Bayside's unpolished vocals are supported by their catchy guitar riffs, and for a pop-rock band, you definately can't say their more image than talent. So that keeps the fans hooked. A Bayside fan NOW is a Bayside fan forever and it seems as if they can do no wrong. That is pretty mcuh how they've become a cult in the eyes and hearts of the listeners who adore their sound, and the messages inside it.
Well put.

[nickthehick2]

Awesome, great review for a great album.

[b.dock.isacult]

It's because of their angst-driven fanbase that is drawn by early albums such as their self-titled (released by Victory at the same time Silverstein's "Discovering The Waterfront" and Hawthorne Heights' "The Silence In Black And White" were released). Upon hearing Bayside's songs, they easily see them as anthems. Heartbreak, alcoholism, religious corruption, and a basically shitty teenage expirience. It's all there. Bayside's unpolished vocals are supported by their catchy guitar riffs, and for a pop-rock band, you definately can't say their more image than talent. So that keeps the fans hooked. A Bayside fan NOW is a Bayside fan forever and it seems as if they can do no wrong. That is pretty mcuh how they've become a cult in the eyes and hearts of the listeners who adore their sound, and the messages inside it.


very very good ive been trying to put this in words for days and now youve done it good job

[stereokiller]

+1% pleaaaaaaase. lol. a really solid album.

[nathaniel]

This is one of my favorite albums of all time. Bayside really pulled through with Shudder, and everything about this release shines, from the exceptional lyrics to the powerful musicianship.

[coopjags55]

I Think I'll Be Ok was one of the most interesting songs of Bayside. It's a totally different outlook than the other albums. I think that's what makes this album so "Love or Hate." Some people don't want Bayside to have a positive outlook, but others(including myself) love this album. Granted, it's not nearly as deep or catchy as Sirens and Condolences or Self-Titled, but it has my attention.