If you’ve ever caught yourself singing “Beverly Hills,” or humming “Island in the Sun,” then you’re one of the millions of people whose hearts have been captured by Weezer. Formed in 1992, the alternative rock band has graced the world’s ears with 7 full length albums, the most recent, Raditude, released in August 2009.
Front man Rivers Cuomo defines the title, created by actor Rainn Wilson, best known for his role as Dwight Schrute on The Office, as “a state of concentration when you can achieve otherwise impossible feats.”
Raditude is a melodic-filled, “feel-good” 10 track album, packed with multiple surprising collaborations; ranging from American Idol star Adam Lambert to the ever popular rapper Lil Wayne.
The first single, “(If You’re Wondering if I Want You To) I Want You To”, is a likable, upbeat tune, describing the typical awkward stages of teenage love. It seems as if it comes naturally for Weezer: the ability to create chart-topping singles with catchy guitar riffs, and almost cutesy lyrics (“Your Mom cooked meatloaf even though I don’t eat meat/ I dug you so much, I took some for the team”). Nonetheless, with such a tantalizing melody, it’s seemingly impossible not to enjoy this song.
Some of the other tracks on the record seem quite lackluster; sounding like every other song that the triple platinum band has released. “Let It All Hang Out” is no exception. Compared to the recently released single, this song is a paint-by-numbers Weezer anthem with a grunge-influenced guitar melody and dull lyrics.
However, “Can’t Stop Partying” differs from the rest; channeling the musical elements of OneRepublic and Kevin Rudolf. Like “(If You’re Wondering If I Want You To) I Want You To”, this song has potential to be a hit. Lil Wayne adds a refreshing hip hop touch to this predominately punk rock tune, enticing listeners with his “fresh” rhythms and raps.
Overall, Raditude doesn’t stray far from past Weezer albums, continuing with the tradition of basic, memorable songs that have entertained listeners for over 10 years. Staying true to the lyrics of “Pork and Beans,” from The Red Album, “Everyone likes to dance/To a happy song/ With a catchy chorus and beat/ So they can sing along."