Make Believe

Description

Following four acclaimed albums filled with power-pop,Weezerswang for the fences on 2005’sMake Believe. Expanding their ambitions, arrangements, and diversity, and helmed by mega-producerRick Rubin, the album ranks as the band’s most diverse and balanced effort. It’s also the group’s longest set distinguished by more personal lyrics inspired by leader Rivers Cuomo’s meditation sessions. Anchored by four radio-charting singles, and streaked with cautious optimism,Make Believeremains a compelling intersection of sleek, new wave and big, meaty arena-rock bluster.

Opening with thechant-a-long anthem“Beverly Hills,”Make Believetakes amusing aim at haute-couture culture and fickle materialism here and on the farcical “We Are All On Drugs,” each song informed by Cuomo’s observations while living in California. Silly, witty, quirky it’s requisiteWeezer, and uses a sense of humor to counteract the more serious sides of the album.

Make Believerepresents both a musical and emotional evolution, whereinWeezerembraces different styles (new wave, harder-edged rock, irony-free ballads) and hints at sincere hopefulness. Two of the effort’s biggest singles (“This Is Such a Pity,” “Perfect Situation”) breathe with an endearing sympathy that steers clear of cynicism or sarcasm. Undercurrents of self-analysis, apology, and resolution run throughout the material and affirm a maturation that nevertheless avoids sacrificingWeezer’shallmark hooks and melodies.

1. Beverly Hills
2. Perfect Situation
3. This Is Such a Pity
4. Hold Me
5. Peace
6. We Are All On Drugs
7. The Damage In Your Heart
8. Pardon Me
9. My Best Friend
10. The Other Way
11. Freak Me Out
12. Haunt You Everyday