A Punk's Corner: The Ataris-So Long, Astoria
Shannon Ray
Issue date: 4/17/03 Section: Arts & Entertainment
Rolling Stones Magazine declared them the "Band to Watch in 2003," and with one listen of The Ataris' latest alblum, So Long Astoria, it is clearly evident why. So Long Astoria, produced by Columbia Records, shows the progression this band has made, with distinctive deviations from their prior releases, such as Blue Skies, Broken Hearts...Next 12 Exits and End is Forever, which were produced by the smaller punk label Kung Fu Records.
With the band's switch to a mainstream label, many punk fans fear that The Ataris are doomed to be the next big thing to declare their presence in the MTV scene, as New Found Glory, Good Charlotte, and Blink 182 have notoriously done. Judging from this album, it is quite possible, but that may not be such a bad thing. I, for one, would much rather hear a quality punk band than be forced to endure another song by Nelly with a ridiculous title like "Pimp Juice."
Though their style has been slightly altered, they still sound like The Ataris, just a little more mature. If you are a fan of old-school punk, you may be disappointed with this small transition, but the music remains strong, as does the voice of lead singer Kris Roe.
The lyrics, as well, convey powerful emotions that create a mature, poetic tone. Standout songs are "So Long, Astoria," "In This Diary," and "The Saddest Song." Though it has been two years since the release of their last full length, So Long, Astoria was well worth the wait.
With the band's switch to a mainstream label, many punk fans fear that The Ataris are doomed to be the next big thing to declare their presence in the MTV scene, as New Found Glory, Good Charlotte, and Blink 182 have notoriously done. Judging from this album, it is quite possible, but that may not be such a bad thing. I, for one, would much rather hear a quality punk band than be forced to endure another song by Nelly with a ridiculous title like "Pimp Juice."
Though their style has been slightly altered, they still sound like The Ataris, just a little more mature. If you are a fan of old-school punk, you may be disappointed with this small transition, but the music remains strong, as does the voice of lead singer Kris Roe.
The lyrics, as well, convey powerful emotions that create a mature, poetic tone. Standout songs are "So Long, Astoria," "In This Diary," and "The Saddest Song." Though it has been two years since the release of their last full length, So Long, Astoria was well worth the wait.