Anberlin:New Surrender
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After the release of their third studio project last year, as well as a collection of “B” Sides, Orlando rock group Anberlin has come forth with a new label, a new record, and a renewed sense of direction. Teaming with Neal Avron(Yellowcard, New Found Glory, Fall Out Boy), these 12 tracks come from the depths of what Anberlin truly is. After signing with Universal Republic, there was much talk about whether they could duplicate their success on Tooth and Nail, as well as the usual talk of “selling-out”. New Surrender is definite proof that Anberlin can hang with the big boys. Opening with the powerful “The Resistance”, New Surrender kicks into high gear immediately and holds you through to the end. Most of the songs stick pretty close to the sound that Anberlin has perfected over the past 6 years. Followed by “Breaking”, a track that showcases a greater inclusion of the keys and synth, NS doesn’t fail. After these two songs though, a few of the songs are much less memorable than I would care to admit. Retrace is very similar to Inevitable from Cities, and they have also re-recorded The Feel Good Drag”, one of the best songs from Never Take Friendship Personal. The biggest difference is that the intro is extended(like) and the screaming is mostly gone(dislike).
Dealing with homelessness, Disappear strikes you deeply with its poignant lyrics and heart. “Darklit streets are no place for kids,
But it gives us more, of a home than you ever did. “ Its this mentality that helps Disappear as one of the best songs on the album. And while there might not be an “Unwinding Cable Car” or “Whisper and a Clamour”, Burn Out Brighter(Northern Lights), fills a void left by these songs, and urges to live and die for something more than ourselves. Breathe is the most spiritually evident song on the album, and often has overtones of the salvation experience.
“I can finally breathe.
Suddenly alive.
I can finally move.
The world feels revived.”
Last but not least, Misearbile Visu (Ex Malo Bonum) deals with the end times and is the epic ending that Anberlin fans have come to expect. While it lacks the punch that Fin had, it still is an admirable addition to the end of this album If New Surrender is what we can expect to come from Anberlin in the future, then the future is very bright. New Surrender is certainly a worthy addition to the Anberlin discography.
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