Self-titled

I don't remember exactly how the debut album of the All-American Rejects self titled album ended up in my CD collection, but I do know that I'm glad it's there. I do remember rocking out in my room with the volume turned up full-blast and singing all the lyrics by heart. I felt so freaking cool!

It is safe to say that I did have good taste in music back then. Who couldn't help swinging their hair to the songs, "Swing, Swing," "Your Star," and "My Paper Heart," with lyrics about love and breaking up. The album is perfect for those Fridays right after class or work when you feel like getting the party started early.

While the music on the album is influenced by punk rock, like "One More Sad Song," "Happy Endings," and "Drive Away," the band is not afraid to exhibit its softer side, as in "Too Far Gone" and "Why Worry."

Even though Tyson Ritter's voice is not in the top 10 percent with the best rock singers, he is able to control his voice very well. His vocals in "My Paper Heart" are close to a yell, and it is not hard to picture in your mind strained veins going up his neck. In "Time Stands Still" his voice drops to a whisper in certain sections of the song and hits high notes in others.

This album surely displays the All-American Rejects' gift in songwriting, playing instruments, and singing. Now that they are accomplished musicians, there is no stopping them.