Album Review: Reggie and the Full Effect creates emo-pop blend in “41”

“41 is an embodiment of Dewees’ unique synthesizer filled indie sound that he blends with emo styled vocals and lyrics.”

After a four year gap, Reggie and the Full Effect have come back to the emo scene with the album 41 (Pure Noise Records).

While there is nobody actually named Reggie in the band, there is James Dewees, keyboardist of The Get Up Kids.

Since Dewees debut of his project with the 2000 release of Promotional Copy, he has gained a cult-like following. This is the first body of work following the 2013 album No Country for Old Musicians.

41 is an embodiment of Dewees unique synthesizer filled indie sound that he blends with emo styled vocals and lyrics.

The album’s first single “Karate School” demands your attention as the song kicks in, reassuring fans that despite the time gap, there was still a sound that stuck true to Reggie.

“Heartbreak” gives off an 80’s feel with the synthesized pop beat. The vocals that follow have a reverb applied to them that only enhances this retro vibe. This pop heavy sound reaches it’s peak in “Channing Tatum Space Rollerblading Montage Music”.

While the techno heavy pop sound isn’t something that I personally find myself drawn to, the album tailors itself to the pop-punk community with Dewees vocal style. “Alone Again” is a great example of the emo driven sound that almost mirrors My Chemical Romance.

Overall, 41 brings a unique spin on the angst filled punk sound that Reggie and the Full Effect has always had. The album definitely goes heavy on the electronic pop sound compared to previous albums.

You can stream 41 on Spotify here, Follow Reggie and the Full Effect on Facebook and Twitter for more updates.