Music reviews. CD reviews. Critically hip!

There is nothing quite like the energy of a live show and the first time I became acquainted with Dallas power-pop group Forever the Sickest Kids was when I happened to catch them opening on this year’s Alternative Press tour. They were zany and enthusiastic and even though they performed songs I had never heard (their debut album didn’t reach stores until over a month after I first saw them) I found myself enamored with them. Having finally heard Underdog Alma Mater in its entirety, I’m glad to report that the album is just as likable as the band itself.

On the larger side for a band, FTSK boasts six members, three of which contribute vocally. Their brand of electronic- cum-guitar, hook-heavy alternative rock benefits from the use of all three singers: lead vocalist Jonathan Cook, bassist/vocalist Austin Bello and guitarist/vocalist Caleb Turman. All of their songs tend to feature their characteristically sped up delivery and jumping between singers contributes to that urgent, almost “ADD” sound. 

While Underdog Alma Mater lies firmly in the emotive (shudder) pop-punk scene, they do dabble in other veins. They take a risk by slowing things down on the introspective and quietly acoustic Coffee Break.  It’s a pleasant surprise to note that even without all the trappings of production and rowdy instrumentation, FTSK still sounds legit, although maybe slightly uncomfortable. And there is even a hint of hip-hop inspiration on the self-explanatory My Worst Nightmare.

Surprisingly, almost all of the tracks on Underdog Alma Mater are uniformly appealing and catchy. The obvious choice for a highlight would be the first single Whoa Oh! (Me Vs. Everyone) with its shouted chorus and heart-on-their-sleeves lyrics (“you’re worth/ losing my self esteem/ you’re not worth/ putting myself in these situation’) sung over synthesized beats.  A personal favorite, though, is Believe Me I’m Lying which showcases its own set of “whoas” but also an infectious “do-do-do” refrain.

While Underdog Alma Mater is not breaking any new stylistic ground, its a classically good pop-punk album that may indicate the boys of Forever the Sickest Kids will soon be the frontrunners of the pack.