Weezer: Hurley Review

Over the past two years Weezer has quickly gone from delivering the worlds strongest brand of power pop to a cringe-worthy parody with the Red Album and Raditude. What’s even more perplexing than their fall from grace is the critics reception to these painfully poor albums. Critics have lauded Raditude and the Red Album in what has to be an act of penance for declaring the culture shifting gem Pinkerton a dud in the 90s. On Weezer’s newest release they abandon their recent soiree into hip hop and attempt to reclaim what is remaining of their golden years. The outcome is a surprisingly well written album and reminds us why Weezer were - and still may be - the greatest nerds in rock.

Hurley opens up with the heavy and nostalgic single “Memories”. The band reminisces back to the olden days when “Audioslave was still Rage”, so yeah, not that long ago. The song fiddles in an area slightly above mediocrity with a synth driven chorus, heavy guitar riffs and Rivers’ aggressive vocals. If it weren’t for the unbelievably horrific track, “Where’s My Sex”, “Memories” would be the albums weakest song, which is saying a lot for a band who has been missing more than hitting as of late.

The remainder of the album with the exception of the two previously mentioned songs displays Weezer at their best since Make Believe. “Ruling Me” delivers the classic Weezer sound and signature Cuomo lyrics all tied together with a stellar hook. The following track “Trainwrecks” marches on with a slower tempo but hits with as much force as any great song from the Weez. “Unspoken” opens up as a slow acoustic ballad, but then blossoms with a big finale. Songs like “Hang On”, “Run Away”, “Smart Girls” and “Brave New World” all carry the attributes of any great nerdy power pop track.

What’s great about Hurley is it’s Weezer doing what Weezer does best. It may be borderline unoriginal, but Rivers has an incredible ability to craft pop-rock songs. Weezer’s dabbling into hip hop felt as odd as Dee Dee Ramone’s attempt, and their decision to put that behind them was arguably the greatest decision of their career. Hurley may not have the kind of sustainability as their Blue through Maladroit days, but it’s far more endearing and enjoyable than Red and Raditude. Weezer needed a comeback and Hurley is their saving grace.

Grade: B