Terrible Start

Artist: Terrible Things

Album: Terrible Things

Release Date: August 31

Label: Universal

Grade: C+

Building up a band's hype based solely on its members is always a risky call. If they can live up to the anticipation, they have the potential to take their place in rock history. However, when the group falls flat, it tends to be bigger news than the failure of an up-and-coming band.

The pop punk scene was infused with excitement when Fred Mascherino, formerly of Taking Back Sunday, and Andy Jackson, formerly of Hot Rod Circuit, announced a new project titled Terrible Things. Anticipation continued to grow when the band announced that drummer Josh Eppard from Coheed and Cambria joined the super group.

Unfortunately, Terrible Things' self-titled debut fell short of the hype. The band's lackluster attempt will fade into memory as just another rock album that failed to make the cut.

Although the three members of the band may have done monumental things throughout their careers, the three combined couldn't make a lasting memory.

The album starts with a beautiful introduction that mixes acoustic guitar with violin and leads into the album-opening "Revolution."

"Revolution" might get the listener excited for the album, but Terrible Things' music seems to lack depth. Many songs on the album sound very similar, almost to the point that listeners must make sure they aren't listening to the same song twice in a row.

However, there are a few tracks that diverge from the traditional sound of the album. Songs like "Conspiracy" and "Wrap Me Up" show off the band's musical range.

Mascherino sings for the majority of the album, which accounts for the lack of soul in the songs. Jackson has the better voice for conveying the band's message, while Mascherino's is more suited for back-up vocals.

Songs led by Jackson's vocal cords stick out the most. His voice is reminiscent of second-wave emo music, like Chris Conely from Saves the Day.

Although Terrible Things may have the tools for success, the execution is less than ideal.