Breakout album from Emo legends. Bleed American came at a time that both catapulted the band into the main stream but also held them back at the same time. The album caused some minor controversy with the title as the 9/11 attacks had occurred and label felt it could be deemed offensive. The album was immediately re-released as a self titled album. The lead single 'The Middle' was a huge hit getting nationwide radio and MTV play that aged well as one of those sort of crossover jock jam / feel good tunes that everyone wants to scream out at the top of their lungs. The band was in top shape while recording this and kept to their emo / indie pop roots that somehow managed to capture the hearts... right time, right place. This vinyl reissue comes with the original artwork and title and is pressed on 150g vinyl. Recommended.

• 150g black vinyl pressing
• gatefold sleeve
• music label: Dreamworks 2001 / Geffen Records 2016

reviewed by Thomas 1/2016