While this record as a whole is very good, it is by no means perfect. There is some filler here. “Smile” comes off as an over the top, excessively sugar coated sappy ballad, and “Everyday You Drive Me Crazy” is a short, reworked version of a Pepsi Cola jingle. I can’t see the merits of “Everyday”, but at least it goes by quickly. “Sleep Forever” is a eulogy for a friend and employee of the band who passed away suddenly. Taken in that context, I can understand why the band wanted that song to be included. Nevertheless, it may have improved the overall flow of the record if it had been included as the final song of the set, rather than the first one.
There is no doubt that Cheap Trick has a very loyal and supportive fan base. And “The Latest” surely will be welcomed by the most loyal followers of the group. This music should also serve as a good addition to the old familiar hits, such as “Surrender” (which Green Day is performing as an encore in their live shows) and “I Want You to Want Me”. But most importantly, since Cheap Trick has been cited as an inspiration to many contemporary musicians, including Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins and Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day, among others), this particular record could gain favor with fans of those bands, too. It might grow on them, if given the chance. Yes, it’s only rock and roll, but I like it.
Grade B+
Article comments
1 - Mike Hayes
Nice, but I think the writer has been reading some of the reviews on the Cheap Trick website message boards.....
2 - f.t.
Mike- I have heard this album and it lives up to the review. It's the best thing they have done in years. I'm a fan but not a sycophant.
3 - Rob
Nice review. (Correction though-George Martin produced the All Shook Up album not Dream Police.)
I agree that "Sleep Forever" could've made a powerful closing song,however putting it first creates a more jarring effect that might be more interesting as it puts you off guard. I agree that "Everyday..." is a little throwaway(another 30 seconds would've been nice) but I HUGELY disagree with "Smile". I'm gonna argue for sweet over syrupy, and Zander's performance is among his most moving. He's totally committed to the message,so I buy it. It never fails to lift my spirits.
You left off the best song on the whole album "Everybody Knows" which is pure epic on a scale Cheap Trick haven't done since maybe "World's Greatest Lover", yet its unlike anything they've ever done. This album is filled with strange little chord changes and interesting instrumentation. I haven't enjoyed a whole CT album like this in eons.
4 - JC Mosquito
I'd like to know if it's as good as their self titled release on Red Ant Records they made a few years back - an absolutely great lost album. Hey, now that I think of it, Rockford wasn't too bad either.
5 - TrickyTolles
This is a fantastic step foward from ROCKFORD. ROCKFORD was a very hard record, that hit hard and left you panting for more.
The Latest slowly grabs you and doesn't let go..but in a different sort of way. Its a complete listen and a great 'Long Player'.
The songwriting and musicianship are stellar!! These guys still have some fire left in their guitar cases and amps!!
Cheap Trick
Cheap Trick
6 - Jedro
I admit I wasn't excited upon my first few listens. I actually put it back on the shelf for a few weeks. Only a few songs grabbed me initially. I popped it in over the weekend and boom!, the record hit me. That's the mark of a good album usually.
"The Latest" is a fantastic record, no doubt. It may take some time to appreciate it, but give it a chance. It is every bit as good as Rockford and better than CT '97.
Without a track by track analysis, the album starts strong then lulls a bit with a few really short tunes and ends like a powerhouse. Tracks 9-13 are nothing short of stellar. Fantastic writing. Top-notch, boys.