Children Collide - Theory Of Everything

 I had established quite high expectations for Children Collides sophomore effort due to their intense live show and amazing first album, The Long Now. The band definitely still has the ability of writing great songs but I can't help but feel the album isn't a progression for the band. There is nothing particularly bad about this new release but it seems like the band hasn't attempted to step forward in any way and its almost as if they just pumped out a bunch of songs in a short period. Despite this, the band has managed to create an album that is still consistently enjoyable with a cool charm.

Highlights include "My Eagle" which is a groovy pop-rock anthem with catchy lyrics and despite its simplicity, manages to keep an exciting vibe. I can already picture the massive live sing alongs. Tracks like "Jellylegs" show they can still write catchy guitar parts and songs like "Seven Forks" show the band exploring different elements of composition and melody. "Loveless" is a nice contrast to the more upbeat tracks, being a mellower soulful song without coming across as lame or forced. "Complacency No Vacancy" shows some catchy Nirvana-esque style rock which also contains groovy guitar licks allowing it to be instantly likeable. Although, some songs such as "Fashion Fits" and "Future Monks" misses the mark, providing little to entice listeners.

As usual the bass and drums work together excellently to provide a solid rhythm throughout the album and the simple lyrics create an innocent vibe that is easier to relate to and consume. Overall the band has created an adequate follow up that contains great songs for the most part. 8/10

Favourite Songs: Complacency No Vacancy, Loveless, Jellylegs, My Eagle.