Anberlin
New Surrender

Campus Correspondent Review By Jim Simmons
Arizona State University

Over the last six years Anberlin has permanently stamped their name in the indie scene, selling over 435,000 albums with Tooth and Nail Records. Again and again the guys have proven that it’s possible to transcend the music industry’s boundaries and create great music for the sake of the art, so much so that they were able to entertain a barrage of major labels punching in their bids for this electric band.

With its fourth album release, Anberlin joins with Universal/Republic, acknowledging a sense of stability among a turbulent music era. This project marks its first major label release and debut collaboration with popular producer Neal Avron (Fall Out Boy, Yellowcard, New Found Glory). New Surrender opens Anberlin’s spectrum of sound, introducing several new elements. The album features powerful dynamic breakdowns as heard on “The Resistance,” moving string arrangements on powerful tunes like “Breaking,” ear catching synth hooks throughout “Disappear” and even more dancey beats with “Blame Me! Blame Me!”

The album also features acoustic ballads “Breathe,” and “Younglife” while rounding out with catchy tunes “Haight St.” and “Feel Good Drag.” Overall the album is very well rounded and is a bit more danceable than the last so all the foot tapping indie lovers can get their fill. Finally, an indie/alternative band rises up to grace the major music market with intelligent songs that bring attention to the world’s social issues, while still maintaining a powerful sound with no compromise of standards.