New Weezer: Gold Album

Although the album title is listed as simply Weezer, it is being referred to as The Gold Album, due to its, well, gold cover. The record has big, loud, and sometimes abrasive guitars, raucous drums, and performances that sound and feel like a band banging out the tracks live in the same room. It has rough edges, tempos that push and pull, and a brash, youthful energy welcome in a world where sanitized and predictable productions are plentiful. Like most Weezer albums, the lyrics are contemporary, pointed, and funny at times. For me, this album is as close to seeing or experiencing the band live without going to a show. It's in your face, and a little off the rails at times, which makes it an enjoyable listen.

The album was produced by Kenneth Blume [Tape Op #174] and Klas Åhlund, and has collaborations with Karly Hartzman and Xandy Chelmis of Wednesday, and Luther Russell [#143]. Engineered by Daniel McNeill and Ryan Nasci, mixed by Josh Gudwin, and mastered by Dale Becker.