Don’t Panic

More often than not, when pop-punk bands begin to make a name for themselves they become a lot more pop than punk.

It seemed All Time Low were very much headed in that direction with 2011’s Dirty Work, soon to fit the category of ‘bands I used to be into’ for many a pop-punk fan.

Luckily, with the release of their fifth and latest album, the four-piece have headed back to their roots – as seems to be trending for many bands of the genre of late. Don’t Panic sees the group returning to their old label, and resembling their original sound.

Insanely catchy guitar riffs and drum beats fill the 12-track listing, with much of the collection bound to get stuck in your head and have you singing along.

Guest vocalists, such as Jason Vena (Acceptance), Anthony Raneri (Bayside), and Cassadee Pope (Hey Monday), appear throughout the album in an attempt to make the record more diverse; yet somehow it all sounds the same. Peaking in the middle with a stretch of quality tracks, it’s the beginning and ending that weigh it down.

‘Outlines’ is an obvious stand out, co-written by Patrick Stump of Fall Out Boy with his distinct vibe, and ‘So Long, Soldier’ provides a heavier sound than its fluffier surroundings, helping regain the album’s strength.

Cheesy lyrics fill the verses, as expected, but regardless Don’t Panic is sure to help All Time Low regain their vitality, as well as their fans. The return to their roots was indeed a wise one – here’s hoping they stick with it for a while.

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