There’s something about a new Jimmy Eat World album coming out, that installs a warm fuzzy feeling and a sense of cosiness. Like an old school friend, you haven’t seen for a while and you naturally just slip straight into conversation with them. As soon as you hear the opening guitar notes on their tenth effort “Surviving” then you know exactly where you are. There isn’t any identifiable chorus as such in the title track, but when the moment comes, it keeps on going and it’s wonderful rousing in the way that only JEW could manage.
“Criminal Energy” is three minutes of straight up solid rock driven by a catchy groove that runs throughout. “Delivery” feels like quintessential Jimmy as does the lead single “All The Way (Stay)”. They are slices that feel like they could have been lifted from 2007’s “Chase This Light” filled with all of those licks and hooks that will earworm your way into your head after only a couple of listens.
They don’t always stick to the formula though as “505” sees them in a more poppier side than usual, dabbling with drum machines and a beat not dissimilar to some of the things you hear on the radio nowadays whilst still keeping their signature charm. “Diamond” stands out on an album filled with catchy tunes mainly due to its huge chorus and soaring guitars, particularly after an inspired key change in the second half of the song.
The best is saved for last though with “Congratulations”. Much like “Pass The Baby” was the highlight on their previous effort “Integrity Blues”, this six minute epic is the band at their heaviest. Like all great closing songs the opening builds up and gears you for what is to come. That is one almighty breakdown which you will be listening to repeat over and over again whilst throwing yourself around with your headphones on. You would hope that this is going to be showcased in their future shows as it’s not doubt going to be a huge crowd favourite.
If the title “Surviving” is referring to them still being this high in the game at this point, then it’s completely unjust. They are still producing great music that still feels fresh even after 25 years in the game.