Plain White T's - Big Bad World

Genre pop Publisher Hollywood Records

Well known for the mega huge success of the gripping pop candy “Hey There Delilah,” the Plain White T’s put forth Big Bad World. The title seems very appropriate, as I imagine these young popsters are going to find out just how cruel and uncompromising the world can become.

PWT’s seem to have taken a big step back, gambling on trading their pop rock sensibility for sappy teen inspired lyrics and forgettable bubble gum pop jingles. One can only guess at the possible success of the album, but songs like “That Girl” and “Meet You In California” spin narratives of unconvincing and lackluster sentiments.

The entire production seems smattered with experiments in genre bending single seekers and uncomfortably awkward serenades. From the outlandish harmonica fueled "I Really Want You," to the wannabe rocker “Serious Mistake,” the inconsistency grows like a mold on the sugary sweet confectionary.

If there is one saving grace, it comes at the hands of guitarist Tim Lopez with the track “Sunlight.” Written in the midst of his going through a divorce, the song offers an earnest heartfelt harmony and finally showcases the bands true range. It’s almost an anomaly here really. Does it come as a surprise that something so tragic brought out the best? Coming off the numb highs of success, it’s quite possible to lose sight of how bad the world can become. Fortunately, it can also be quite forgiving and give you the opportunity to fight another day.