Pop Unknown
If Arsenic Fails, Try Algebra
Reviewed by David M. Pogge
Too melodic to be called emo, but too creative to be called pop, Austin's Pop Unknown float somewhere in the waters of neutrality between the two with their latest release, If Arsenic Fails, Try Algebra. It's pop in the fact that it is accessible and extremely catchy, but it's emo in the fact that it has those beautiful chiming guitars and emotive vocals. While not sounding at all overproduced, this album has a very clean production that adds to their accessible vibe. Hypnotic guitar picking, passionate vocals and tear jerking melodies all melt together to form the perfectly crafted and balanced album. This album feels a lot like a joyous cry - - one of those cathartic sobs of release that just feels right; the kind of cry that occurs at the end of a beautiful movie. You're not sad, on the contrary, you couldn't be happier, but all of the feelings and emotions just well up inside of you until you just have to pour it all out in a pool of tears. If you appreciate moments like these, then If Arsenic Fails... will strike a chord with you from the very first time it makes it to your CD player. For those of you who have seen the advertisements and the "ex-Mineral" labels, I would suggest that you drop any preconceived notions now. These young men have taken quite a departure from Mineral's unbridled intensity and found a comfortable niche in the domain of melodic hooks and gentle smiles. If the raw angst of Mineral ripped your heart out, then the luscious melodies of Pop Unknown would be just the antidote to heal the wound. I think I would describe this album as "post-emo." The emo influences are there, but it sounds like these guys have taken the next step in their musical journey. If emo is the fit of depression that follows the anger of hardcore, then the passionate melodies of Pop Unknown would be the sound of the healing process that would hopefully ensue.