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For many, Jack’s Mannequin brings forth memories of junior high. After from that, most listeners drifted off to other bands and artists, leaving these albums labeled “throwback” at the back of CD cases. But Jack’s Mannequin is far from gone from public view.

Leading man Andrew McMahon opens up the album with “My Racing Thoughts”. His voice can take some getting used to, and can be grating for some…with this as an opening song listeners are able to evaluate immediately if they’ll be able to carry on until the end of the album.  

 Though lacking captivating rhythm, the lyrics are what you would expect from them--lovely.

“Release Me” picks things up a bit more with catchier instrumentals and a subtle danceablility while “Television” takes us back to their older stuff.   

“Amy, I” is beautiful, and the vocals are right on.

“Hey Hey Hey We’re all Gonna Die” is a soulful song, with a calming emotional (and also catchy!) chorus that’s simple, but enough. It’s a “just right” kind of song, and one of the best on the album.

The next five songs can be categorized by one word: nice. And these are a bit difficult to explain because they are by no means bad songs. They are very Jack’s Mannequin, but with no deviation.

And because there are five “nice” songs in a row, “nice” starts to get “old”. 

 There is a line between comforting familiarity and predictability and these songs become background music. “People, Running” is a pretty song with simple beats.

This song, like all the others, is reliant on vocals. “Amelia Jean” is more of the same.

By this point the listener is looking for something refreshing but no help comes from “Platform Fire” or “Hostage” or “Restless Dream”. It’s the same deal: strong vocals, simple instrumentals, slow beats, then more emotion and louder instrumentals for the chorus as the song picks up speed, and then back to slow again. 

“Casting Lines” ends the album on a good note, a song that successfully walks the familiarity line. Though it doesn’t really throw any curve balls, there’s something about it that’s refreshingly unique.

Along with these songs, the band released a line of short films for each song which are worth watching. 

So, no, Jack’s Mannequin hasn’t really changed much from junior high, but then again old doesn’t always equal bad. Lyrics are still great, and songs are solid. It’s not a standout album, and not necessarily an award winner, but it’s pleasant.  

Reach Noelia here.