All-American Rejects astounded listeners with their first album (particularly “Swing, Swing”) which was genuinely impressive. With this Move Along album, it was evident they’re maturing and refining their sound to their own. The album may be much more rounded out before, with each track memorably different yet containing the classic AAR sound.
“Dirty Little Secret” and “Stab My Back” got this album off to a good start, with catchy melodies which will stay in your head all day. “Move Along”, lives up as the title track. And however bromidic it may sound, the lyrics can give a feeling of self-regard.
Whichever side of things we happened to be on, “It Ends Tonight” remains a song we can all identify with. It’s followed by “Change Your Mind” which holds out as one of the favorite upbeat and catchy tracks. Then again, are there any AAR songs that aren’t catchy?
“Night Drive”, which may not be one of the best songs on the CD, still holds outstandingly good. It may not sound like AAR (besides Tyson’s unique voice) as much as one would expect, but open-minded people will like it. “11:11 pm” had the same kind of qualities as “Change Your Mind” but just dissimilar enough to be unique.
“Dance Inside,” a song that is so beautiful, it can make a person cry just listening to it. The music personifies beautiful and the lyrics are perfect. Even if you don’t like the All-American Rejects, listen to this song and see if it doesn’t convince. Call it punk, pop or something else it is fine either way. One shouldn’t really try to compare AAR to any band, although one would like them if you’ve like Green Day or Blink.
The Intro to “Top of the World” sort of starts off sounding Spanish, then strikes into an outpouring of music. The vocals are kind of bratty but the melody is hits really strong. “Straitjacket Feeling” which follows, is sort of wiped out by the previous songs. It is kind of similar to “It Ends Tonight.” One can find blending the two because they’re so alike.
Concluding with “Im Waiting”, reminicient of album number one, and “Can’t Take It”, a calming-down song which cues that the CD’s done, this album closes with the impression there will be more and to come in the future.