Review By Halina Wegner
Twenty-five years ago, The Get Up Kids released “Something to Write Home About,” a record that would go on to define the pop-punk and emo genres for a generation. As the years have passed, the album has remained a touchstone in the alternative music scene, frequently cited as one of the greatest albums of its kind. Now, with the 25th Anniversary Deluxe Edition, the band invites us to revisit this seminal work, complete with an additional disc of unheard material that adds new layers to an already cherished album.
From the moment “Holiday” kicks off the album, you’re reminded why this record still resonates so deeply. The infectious energy, the raw emotion, and the heartfelt lyrics immediately transport you back to the late ’90s. The band, consisting of Matt Pryor (vocals/guitar), Jim Suptic (guitar/vocals), Rob Pope (bass), Ryan Pope (drums), and James Dewees (keyboard), showcase a chemistry that feels as fresh today as it did a quarter of a century ago. Their ability to blend punk urgency with melodic sensibility is on full display, and it’s easy to see why “Holiday” remains a fan favorite.
Tracks like “Action & Action” and “Ten Minutes” capture the essence of The Get Up Kids’ sound—explosive, anthemic, and deeply relatable. Suptic and Pryor’s guitars intertwine effortlessly, creating a wall of sound that is both powerful and nuanced. Rob Pope’s basslines, paired with his brother Ryan’s dynamic drumming, drive the songs forward with relentless energy, while Dewees’ keyboards add a layer of emotional depth that rounds out the band’s sound.
“Valentine” and “I’ll Catch You” slow things down, revealing the band’s softer side without losing any of their emotional impact. Pryor’s vocals are particularly poignant here, delivering lyrics that have become anthems for those navigating the complexities of young love and heartache. The way the band builds these songs, gradually layering instruments to create a crescendo of emotion, is a testament to their songwriting prowess.
The additional disc of demos included in the 25th Anniversary Edition is a treasure trove for fans, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind the album. Tracks like “One Year Later” and the demo version of “My Apology” are raw and unpolished, yet they capture the same spirit that made the finished album so special. Hearing these early versions of the songs adds a new dimension to the album, allowing listeners to appreciate the evolution of each track.
Perhaps the most striking thing about revisiting “Something to Write Home About” in this anniversary edition is how timeless it feels. The Get Up Kids captured something universal in their music—an exploration of youth, emotion, and the struggles that come with both. The album’s themes of love, loss, and longing are just as relevant today as they were in 1999, and the band’s ability to convey these emotions with such authenticity is what has kept this album in the hearts of so many.
As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of “Something to Write Home About,” it’s clear that this album is more than just a relic of the past. It’s a living, breathing piece of music history that continues to inspire new generations of listeners. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, this Deluxe Edition is a reminder of why The Get Up Kids are considered pioneers in their genre—and why this album remains something to write home about.
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