Music Reviews

Weezer improves their sound with Maladroit

By Jane Muhlstein

Scene Writer

Weezer fans have not had to wait long for the L.A. band's new album Maladroit. Released one day short of a year after their self-titled third album (nicknamed The Green Album by fans), Weezer's fourth music venture builds upon their signature sound with a new collection of catchy rock songs. With this release, the band is returning to the sound it created in its earlier albums.

The band follows up last year's album with songs similar to their first hit "Undone (The Sweater Song)." The first single "Dope Nose," combines Weezer's characteristic rock with their typical quirky lyrics ("cheese smells so good on a burnt piece of lamb/ Fact of the year who could beat up your man").

However, this album shows off the development of the band's talent over the years. Guitar solos on Maladroit are more sophisticated than on previous albums. Songwriter and lead singer Rivers Cuomo obviously decided to use this album to show off the musical precision he has developed.

The album also features experimentation with slightly different styles. "American Gigolo" and "December" incorporate a 1950s sound. "Burndt Jamb" was inspired by the jazz song "Breezin'" by George Benson. Although these songs are not dramatically different from traditional Weezer music, they are a step in a new direction for the band.

One classic Weezer feature that has carried over onto Maladroit is the length of the album. The band is generally known for their short songs and this album continues the tradition. Although there are thirteen songs included on the album, its total length is just over 33 minutes.

Despite its brevity, Maladroit successfully unites Weezer's usual cool rock with new stylistic elements for a more refined sound. B