Weezer fans and critics are pretty harsh on post-Green album Weezer releases. I'm still stuck on the Blue Album, so I checked Weezersphere to see what heads are saying. Most reviews start just like mine, people are afraid to make a call on the "new Weezer" (or make the emotional investment). However, beyond the intro, the general consensus seems to be that Weezer has returned to its likable (hard-ish) rock roots, complete with production by Ric Ocasek who produced the Blue Album. It definitely seems that a re-discovery of some sort going on, complete with the whimsical cover illustration (still trying to figure out why Hurley was on the cover of the last one). Yeah, as the tracks progress in my headphones, I have to say that this is much better than what we've come accustomed to. Check back in a little.

• 180g vinyl in gatefold sleeve
• includes MP3 download card
• music label: Republic Records 2014

reviewed by the mgmnt 09/2014