Nickelback released their latest album, “Here and Now,” on November 21, 2011. Although the album didn’t chart nearly as well as the group’s 2008 classic, “Dark Horse,” it’s still a solid album comprised of feel good grit and family fun!

The album begins with the patriotic tune “This Means War.” The track tends to lend itself more towards Nickelback’s psychedelic roots, as the group demonstrates musical ability through unique tonal structures. Due to the obvious John Lennon influence, one may find the confrontational message of the song to be somewhat out of place.

Listen to “Bottoms Up” for a good ol’ drinkin’ time. Considered Nickelback’s magnum opus, “Bottoms Up” allows fans an insight into the Nickelback lifestyle. This lifestyle entails binge drinking and anti-feminist lyrics. Don’t worry Chad Kroeger fans, he can handle his booze, just not multiple chord progressions.

“When We Stand Together” reflects on Nickelback’s Christian-rock background. The term power ballad doesn’t truly fit the stylings of the track. It’s more so a unified cohesion of pop tendencies mixed with Canadian angst toward our planet’s residents. In one word, it’s Nickelback.

“Midnight Queen” is a song, I think.

“Gotta Get Me Some” describes Kroeger’s search for musical talent. Judging solely from this song, his journey is far from complete.

“Lullaby” was written by Nickelback during a group nap session that took place while the band was staying in Northern Algeria. A little known fact is that Kroeger was actually born and raised in the Sahara desert, the heat continually drying his throat out. This is what led to the classic Nickelback vocal timbre that’s so loved today.

“Kiss It Goodbye” is audible, I think.

“Trying Not to Love You” is a song the group wrote from the perspective of their fans. As of now it’s a crowd favorite.

In “Holding On to Heaven,” Kroeger miraculously manages to avoid the assumed metaphor of clinging to a deserting partner. Instead he describes the ache of his gripping hand, due to the incredible altitude of the “Heaven” that he just won’t let go of.

“Everything I Wanna Do” shows the band leader in a more modest light. Kroeger explains how “my baby, she’s into everything I wanna do.” As a father, this shows that Kroeger enjoys activities that both he and his daughter can enjoy. Such activities include drawing in coloring books and rhythmically reciting the alphabet. Considering there is only one possible connotation for baby, this explanation will suffice.

“Don’t Ever Let It End” is realistic on the band’s behalf, sarcastic on the listeners’.