ALBUM REVIEW: Chaos In Bloom – Goo Goo Dolls
The GOO GOO DOLLS are best known for their hit 1998 song, Iris. Formed in 1986 by vocalist/guitarist John Rzeznik, bassist and vocalist Robby Takac (who are now the only two members remaining), and former drummer George Tutuska, the band have released twelve albums between 1987 and 2020. Their thirteenth album, Chaos In Bloom, follows on from their 2020 Christmas album, It’s Christmas all Over Again.
Chaos In Bloom was produced entirely by Rzeznik, and it is a much more experimental album. It comprises of ten songs. Yeah, I Like You is the first song. It’s an upbeat indie rock song that sounds a bit like something from THE KILLERS. However, this is not a bad thing because it is something different. Unfortunately, the next song, War, sounds like an exact rehash of Yeah, I Like You. This is a shame because the two songs sound identical, and therefore it is hard to differentiate them. Thankfully, this mistake does not effect the rest of the album. This is thanks to the production. This album is the first one to be produced by Rzeznik; however, it is so well-produced that it’s an exceptional piece of work. It’s clear he knows what he is doing as the album’s pacing is not too slow and not too fast.
As well as being more experimental, this album also returns to their roots. As they have been a band for so long, it’s obvious that the GOO GOO DOLLS would want to change their sound over the years. However, there is something refreshing about going back to an older sound with an older pair of eyes. Furthermore, the GOO GOO DOLLS show that being together for almost four decades have done wonders. This is best shown in Loving Life, which sounds like it could be on the soundtrack for an 80s coming-of-age movie.
However, what is the most impressive thing about this album is that each song sounds a little different. Of course, if you listen to the songs on their own, it wouldn’t make a difference. On the other hand, if you listen to them in order, then they do sound different. For example, Day After Day is a pop-rock song, whereas Past Mistakes is an indie-rock song. Whilst it might not be as experimental as some other bands, it is nice to see that the GOO GOO DOLLS are open to exploring the many different sub-genres of rock music.
In conclusion, the GOO GOO DOLLS have shown that they’ve still got the talent to go back to their roots and not have it sound like a cash grab. Chaos In Bloom is a joyful album that shows off the band’s talent and Rzeznik‘s production skills. Despite the first two songs sounding the same, this issue is quickly corrected with the rest of the album. Each song’s difference is subtle, but it’s fun to hear the progression. The album is well paced, well produced, and it is a coherent piece of work. It’s nice to see the GOO GOO DOLLS go back to their roots. This album is a fantastic addition to their wide back catalogue, and is one that will please old and new fans alike.
Rating: 8/10
Chaos In Bloom is set for release on August 12th via Warner Records.
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