(5 Out of 5)

Alkaline Trio finally got their shot at the majors with their Epic Records release Agony & Irony.  Surely this move may upset some longtime fans, but it’s about time Alkaline Trio get what they deserve.

Overall, Agony & Irony is Trio’s pop record, complete with harmonic “whoa-oh’s” and “yeah’s” unseen in previous records.  Both Matt Skiba and Dan Andriano emit crisp vocals, while exploring pitches, especially on a track like “Do You Wanna Know,” where Andriano hits some pretty high notes during the chorus.  There’s no doubt that the band have evolved in their 10 year tenure.  Sure not all of the lyrics are about drinking, death and being alone anymore, but that gets old anyway.  Alkaline Trio still offer up some eyebrow raising one liners like, “…You see I painted you a picture/ It’s black and white, except the blood’s a little richer…” on “Love Love, Kiss Kiss” or “There’s a party in my closet, calling all skeletons” on “Calling All Skeletons.” 

Songs like “In Vein,” which chugs along with a poppy urgency or “Live Young, Die Fast,” complete with it’s orchestra-like sound are sure to be ear catching.  The band even tackles suicide on the all too realistic “Over and Out.”

With production efforts provided by Josh Abraham (Unwritten Law, Atreyu, Slayer), Trio is armed with their best record in years.  Agony & Irony is by far the band’s most complete record since From Here to Infirmary, and with the combination of a major label behind them, Alkaline Trio will surely be able to share their talent in previously un-chartered waters.

Suggested Listening: “Love Love, Kiss Kiss,” “Over and Out” and “Calling all Skeletons”

By: Adam K. Zak III - Senior Editor / Founder