CD Review: Taking Back Sunday, New Again

Part of TBS's signature sound came from its use of dueling vocals between lead singer Adam Lazarra and lead guitarist Mascherino (on Louder Now and 2004's Where You Want To Be); this sound is absent on New Again as Lazarra single-handedly takes over vocals. Not that he doesn't do a good job -- Lazarra's voice has greatly matured since the post-pubescent wails of Friends. The band also utilizes plenty of catchy lyrics that buzz around your head long after listening to the record, and songs like "Lonely, Lonely," "Summer, Man" and "Where My Mouth Is" rely heavily on memorable, repetitive choruses.

Fazzi's guitar work will not disappoint apprehensive listeners, either, layering all kinds of hooky yet complicated riffs over Eddie Reyes' rhythm work, most notably in "Swing" and "Everything Must Go," the epic closing to New Again.

Overall, TBS deliver a solid album with New Again that, despite being a divergence from their previous records, can be appreciated and enjoyed by both die-hard fans and new fans alike.

Taking Back Sunday is currently on a world tour in support of new album with Anberlin and Envy on the Coast; the tour stops at the Ritz Ybor this Tues., June 16.