REVIEW: Knuckle Puck '20/20'

2020 has been a dark time for many, testing the limits of the world to see what our breaking point will be. But from such troubling times, we have seen artists rise within the music industry combat this with a positive outlook toward something better beyond the horizon. Bands such as Knuckle Puck, have come to deliver a shimmer of hope within their lyrics and instrumental fervor with their latest release 20/20 via Rise Records. 

From the beginning, the album is dripping with positivity and zeal with "20/20." With captivating jangly guitar riffs, their signature pop-punk sound, and catchy feel-good lyrics, it's the perfect way to start the record and set the tone for the rest of the LP. 

We then make our way to explosively upbeat "Tune You Out." Another track that is composed of unbridled passion and verve, it keeps the positive energies kicking and alive for the next moment, "Sidechain." Though it is not the most standout track on the record, lyrically and percussively, this is a piece that is worthy of being on the album as it shows progress from the band in a way that we haven't seen them write on past works. 

"Sidechain" then prepares us for the moment that stands out above the rest, "Earthquake." One of the best songs Knuckle Puck has written to date, "Earthquake" shows levels of writing both instrumentally and lyrically that this band can do it all. From its sun-drenched guitar strings and warmth in the drum delivery, its a track that takes us back to the summer days we recently left behind. 

The hits continue with "RSVP," with an impassioned bass line that complements the overall sullen nature that surrounds the lyrics and Joe Taylor's vocals of this track, it's one of the more emotional highpoints on the record that will keep listeners invested for the rest of the experience. 

We then move on to cross-over junction "Breath," featuring Derek Sanders of Mayday Parade. Taylor and Sander's vocals beautifully work together while displaying a positive message at the same time. It's hard to imagine why fans would not enjoy this infectious little ditty as the vocals and lyrical positivity alone are enough to keep listeners gravitated to this track.  

"What Took You So Long" stands out as one of the most addicting tracks lyrically and instrumentally on the record. With its incredibly inventive sing-song lyrical style and luminous instrumental presence, its another track on this album that is bound to become a favorite aside from "Earthquake." "Into The Blue" then dives in full force with wave crashing guitar riffs and aggressive yet undarkened drum delivery, dancing effortlessly around a sad love experience. It's evident that Knuckle Puck has put in the necessary time and effort to curate what they wanted on this record, and songs like this are a testament to that. 

"Green Eyes (Polarized)," is one of the most distinct listening experiences on 20/20. From the unique atmospheric tones to Taylor's standout performance on this track, it's a different kind of sunlit ethereal experience that sets itself apart from the rest of the record. While this is one of the more unembellished tracks on 20/20, it's a welcomed addition that still feels right at home with the other songs. 

Second to last track, "True North," is another gush of radiance that pushes through just before we hit the final moment of the album "Miles Away." A moment that feels every bit like a closing number with its reverberating drums and nostalgic shimmering guitar energy, it's a track that delivers on all fronts before closing us out successfully. 

20/20 wasn't a perfect album by any means. But concerning that, it was not trying to be the "perfect album." Knuckle Puck doesn't try to impress anyone, which is why many in the industry have grown to love and respect them. There is a reason why this band has gotten as far as they have, and it has not been by glad-handing those they want to make happy with their sound. Knuckle Puck has always worked around this formula of crafting the music they want to make, and if people resonated with the message, then feel free to join them for the ride.

While 20/20 isn't their best album, it's a great album that doesn't stray too far from 2015’s Copacetic and the sound we all grew to love from that. Knuckle Puck has crafted a sunbeamy album we need at a time where many are hurting, in search of some kind of happiness in a world that is angry and unhappy. For those that are into the pop-punk and are in need of a positive boost, this is a record to add to your playlist.