Let’s finish this week off in Arizona, shall we? I purchased Jimmy Eat World’s seventh studio album, Invented, shortly after it was released on Sept. 28, 2010. I was first introduced to their music in my second year of college when they were riding the high of Bleed American. I had to burn the CD a few times because I needed one in my dorm room, vehicle and CD player for the batting cages (see what life was like before mp3 players, kids?). I always look forward to their new releases.

The thing about Jimmy Eat World is that their second and third albums, Clarity and Bleed American, respectively, were stellar. While Clarity is more of a cult classic for diehard Jimmy Eat World fans – it was the first album that positioned Jim Adkins as the frontman – Bleed American thrust the guys into the limelight. That album gave us such gems as “Sweetness”, “The Middle” and beautiful ballad “Cautioners”. I think the band has struggled to maintain that level of success over the years. I’m not saying their other albums were flops, by any means. I’m just pointing out that they were not as successful as Bleed American.  

Personally, I don’t mind that Jimmy Eat World has changed over the years. I think that’s what bands should do – progress. Who wants to a listen to a band that’s stagnant in sound? While some tracks on Invented are reminiscent of Bleed American, there’s more of a Futures feel to it. The band seems to have shed most of its alt-punk angst, but the songs are still saturated with emotion (just listen to the lyrics of any of the tracks). I think the album starts off on a good note with “Heart Is Hard To Find” and finishes strong with “Mixtape.” I especially like the recurring line, “It’s too late, you can’t walk away now,” as if Adkins is telling you, the listener, that you’re in too deep with the band if you’re still here. 

Admittedly, the middle lagged just a bit. I felt myself becoming distracted during “Cut” because I was ready for something a little more up-tempo at that point. Not the song’s fault at all. “Action Needs An Audience” is very punk-esque, definitely a track I can play loud while driving. It was placed well on the album, right after a string of slow songs to rejuvenate the listener.

Phoenix singer/songwriter Courtney Marie Andrews provides guest vocals on a few tracks, which was delightfully unexpected. Although I’ve changed my mind a few times, I’m ready to commit to the best song on the album being “Invented”. It’s a lengthy track, but worth every second. Andrews’ sweet vocals add another layer of emotion without making it too sugary. Both she and Adkins sing so the words soak through your skin. When I close my eyes and sigh a little, that’s when I know it’s a good song.

If you asked me yesterday, I might have said “Stop” was my favorite. The track works for me because the lyrics are weighted with real life. I don’t know, I just might be a sucker for songs that are about being down and out when it comes to love.

Overall, I would say this album is worth the purchase if you’re already a Jimmy Eat World fan. But, if you’re just getting into them, I suggest you start from the beginning and work your way forward, or you might not appreciate the progression.

Hits: “My Best Theory”, “Stop” and “Invented”