FUTURES (BLUE)

After firmly establishing itself in the hearts and minds of rock fans through numerous EPs and two albums of angst-fueled power-pop, Jimmy Eat World scored a big hit single with "The Middle," from the excellent BLEED AMERICAN (re-christened JIMMY EAT WORLD in the wake of 9/11). The mainstream had finally caught up with Jimmy Eat World. FUTURES, the ensemble's first album following its breakthrough, doesn't stray from the formula that has worked so well for the Arizona band. Jim Adkins's vocals are quietly insistent, and at times fiery, conveying reflective, intelligent lyrics that complement intricate melodies. Like its immediate predecessor, FUTURES opens with a politically minded title track ("I hope for better in November"), but, in general, the songs mostly revolve around love and longing. "Work" and "Pain" are filled with heart-on-the-sleeve emotions, and Jimmy Eat World makes these tunes work with undeniable sincerity. With many sharp, catchy songs on display, FUTURES is another outstanding record from Jimmy Eat World.

• Genre: Pop
• Format: Vinyl
• Released: 07/22/2016