This sophomore project doesn't move very far from All Star's first record. The guitars and lyrics have the same hint of Steve Taylor and early Newsboys that their debut had, and its pop influences (whoo-hoo!) hold it back from really rocking out, despite the punk tinges that show up here and there. The opener, "Big Rock Show" is one of the better songs on this disc, along with the straight ahead rocker "International Anthems." There are some other highlights though, "Popular Americans" could be a Blues Brothers song, and the ballads are nicely done ("Thank You, Goodnight" and "I Need You Now"). From blues to lounge to the Beach Boys, there is a lot of retro rock nestled between the layers of synthesizer, which makes for an interesting combination. The lyrics address some poignant issues, from the daily need for repentance to the shallow judging of socialites, but often get caught in cliché and lack bite by themselves. Most of the songwriting rests on Ian Eskelin, and despite venturing down several avenues of genre, the lack of diversity begins to show here. Certainly a strong record, but it does not have the development you want in the follow up to a smash debut (unless you are Aerosmith).
Other coverage for this album
ReAL Magazine 1999Reviewed by Kevin D. HendricksHolland, Turkey, Ireland, Bosnia, New Zealand—these boys really get around. Since the release of their '97 debut album All Star United has traveled the world. And it shows with their new release, International Anthems for the Human Race. The song writing is ironic and sarcastic, reminiscent of Steve Taylor. The music is a blend of whatever you want to call it: 80's pop, glam, arena rock. But…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by James StewartA cursory listen to All Star United's sophomore release could leave some listeners worried about the band's grasp of humility--especially since in the second track they proclaim themselves "the greatest band in the world." But that listener would merely be unfamiliar with Ian Eskelin and company's brand of satire. Mixing two fairly equal doses of entertainment and commentary, this is a strong…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Steven S. BaldwinIn the spirit of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it, just tweak it a bit," All Star United have recently released their second album, which largely resembles and expands on their signature sound from their self-titled debut. The budget for International Anthems for the Human Race was considerably larger than for their first, resulting in a bigger, bolder, and more brash All Star United…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Daren AllderAnyone familiar with the so-called Brit-Pop scene of a few years ago will have spotted the influences in All Star United's eponymous debut album. Worn proudly alongside their more traditional US rock heritage were flavours of (most noticeably) Blur and Supergrass. A couple of years later, their second album retains those influences and adds a few more--chiefly Oasis, The Cardigans (is Swede-Pop…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Shari LloydI borrowed this album planning on giving some balance to these reviews. I had the first album. I've heard them in concert. Nothing great! Three reviews with four tocks--give me a break. By the second song, I was re-thinking my viewpoint. By the end of the album, I had to agree with them. Sure it's pure pop fun with light, breezy lyrics but they also give you something to think about. 4 tocksSimilar sounding releases
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