Brianna Howarth SCAD Radio April 2014

Who Would Join This Revolution?

The Used’s latest , ‘Imaginary Enemy’ (released April 1, 2014) begins with the aggressive, explosive first song, “Revolution.” With a chorus that will get crowds off their feet, fist pumping along, and shouting the anthem-like chorus: “This is the end/Calling for revolution;” you can’t help but join. ’s revolution has to be powerful, in your face, and bloodthirsty. But, if you join The Used’s revolution, boredom will ensue for the next ten tracks. Gone is the grit, dirt, and spit that The Used fans have come to expect. Instead the nasty edge has been replaced with sleepy melodies and empty clichés. And, sadly, it seems, the singer, Bert McCracken has forgotten how to howl and scream as was once so evident on previous , such as, ‘Lies for the Liars,’ ‘,’ and ‘Artwork.’ Track seven, “Evolution,” is a tranquil journey of floating on clouds with uplifting lyrics. Much lighter than typical The Used songs, it could be mistaken for a U2 number. The nice sentiments expressed about inner strength and staying true to yourself are endearing, but much too cute for The Used. A band who once sang, “There’s like the blood in you,” has drained the blood, rid of the depression, and dropped the needle. The darkness has disappeared, and the light that’s left isn’t all that bright and beautiful. The last song, “Overdose,” promises smack, bad breath, and bruises. But, with its chorus: “Your love is my drug,” Ke$ha comes to mind in all her glitter and glitz and the song cannot be taken seriously. The forced dreamy melody is more than disappointing for diehard The Used fans. The Used was once the epitome of an band: poetic lyrics about heartbreak, death, and sadness; screaming vocals paired with angst driven singing, and disturbed, cut throat music. Not anymore. The only songs worth giving a listen are the first two. The Used carved a niche for themselves but have sadly buried it six feet deep with ‘Imaginary Enemy.’