Let’s face it: Weezer will never again match the colossal genius that was “The Blue Album” and “Pinkerton.” So if you can accept that, you can definitely accept “Make Believe,” Weezer’s much-anticipated fifth album. This is the band’s first album since “Pinkerton” that can stand on its own, and it marks a new era for the fabulous four. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, Weezer is back, sticking with the sound that brought them success and admiration, with instantly appealing hooks and beautiful guitar solos, but the band has tweaked and grown with its sound. Even though the album is reminiscent of the Weezer from a decade ago, “Make Believe” is destined to be a classic all it’s own.
The album starts off with the poppy, radio-friendly “Beverly Hills,” which comes off as a mixture of what was on their last two albums. The second song, “Perfect Situation,” could have definitely been found on “The Green Album” with its big, guitar-driven intro that slides into Rivers’ smooth voice and poppy, emotional lyrics. The hits continue with “This Is Such A Pity,” which has a beginning reminiscent the 1980s Men at Work song “Who Can It Be Now?.” “Damage in Your Heart” manages to be instrumentally tight yet have beautifully smooth, flowing vocals. There are, of course, a fair share of typical Weezer rockin’ ballads, such as “Hold Me” and “Haunt You Every day.” Weezer tries something new with the spooky “Freak Me Out,” which actually made me laugh out loud the first time I listened to it.
All in all, “Make Believe” is definitely an album to add to the collection and proves that Weezer is finally back and ready to rock.
–Amy Lichty