I don't understand it, I really don't. Take a band like Hawthorne Heights. Absolutely terrible. Terrible vocals, terrible lyrics, terrible music. Why are they so big? It makes me so angry when there are genuinely good bands in the same field who aren't getting the recognition they deserve so I'm making it my duty to promote one of the best American bands I've heard in a long time, Just Surrender. And I bet you quite a bit that you've never even heard of them.
'If These Streets Could Talk', is one of the best debuts I have ever heard. Sharing more than a passing resemblance to Matchbook Romance's 'Stories and Alibis' it conveys the darker side of pop punk in a no nonsense way. Opening with 'I Can Barely Breathe', you soon find yourself enchanted by guitar riffs which work and leave you hooked, unlike many band's pathetic attempts that leave you mid air and disappointed. Just Surrender are sugar coated like any American pop punk prototype, but underneath, they manage a well aimed punch in the stomach whether it be through lyrics or crashing guitars and drums. 'Of All We've Known' allows the album's success to continue, it's one of those songs you'd kill for to see live.
There aren't that many songs which bring a tingle to my spine but 'Tell Me Everything' manages it every time. Again, the Matchbook Romance reference springs to mind with it's definite 'Playing For Keeps' feel, but it does have it's own definite spark of originality. Sentimental 'Is There No Truth In Beauty?' doesn't stick out like a sore thumb like most ballads on most albums. It has its own edge about it which reminds you that it isn't just there as an excuse for you to quieten down at their shows.
Even though it's not available in the UK, I urge you, I really really urge you to order this album on import. If you've ever thought a Matchbook Romance, Story of the Year or Spitalfield song any good, I can guarantee you'll like Just Surrender. Definitely one of the best albums I have ever heard.
    
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