All Star United
International Anthems for the Human Race
Reviewed by Daniel Johnston
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).