Album Review: 5 Seconds of Summer

There is something about the moment you buy a new album and hold it in your arms, taking in the fact that what lies behind that plastic casing is the sweet sound of euphoria and enjoyment to come. A moment of bliss and satisfaction, you rip open the casing and play the CD, taking in the sound of what's beguiling to the senses. An album that has held such desires close to my heart is the brand-new, self-titled album by none other than Australian pop/rock band, 5 Seconds of Summer.

A debut album, collating the hard work of 4 guys over 2 years, this is 5 seconds of summer's latest release to have caused frenzy on the web. Edgier than Michael's hair, 5SOS throw out rock tunes which will have you on your feet in moments, contrasting with soft ballads like 'Amnesia' and 'Never Be' which stretch the music genre to different heights. The general theme is that many of the songs are based on relationships that are, if not sweet, rebellious, also appealing to their fan base of teenage girls. It is clear in how every song sounds that this band has developed their own style, different to the perception that they are another 'One Direction'. This is far from the truth. Whilst they have a relevant pop sound, there is an ingrown rock style that's rivetingly clear in the vocals, particularly of guitarist, Michael Clifford. Then we have the talent in the fact they play instruments which is something that many rock bands hold dearly, traditionally as something which defines a rock band.

There is really nothing not to like about this album. If you feel in the mood to jump around there are songs like 'Don't Stop', a party hit through and through. What about 'English Love Affair'? Rocky, raunchy and rustic it's sure to have you strumming air guitar and air-drumming like an idiot without a care in the world in a fragment of a moment. But if you're not into that, there's tracks like 'Amnesia' which has a melancholic, doleful sound that at the same time has you lulled into a relaxed state of mind. 'Long Way Home', although more energetic has a slightly westernised sound that is entrancing, providing an unwinding and quieting feeling.

However this is a band, that many people choose to avoid, whether it be because their music taste is different or purely because the hysteria around the band, sourcing from teenage girls, causes them to distaste the attention the band receives. It's something i can't see to understand but is certainly a relevant reason why the appeal to 5SOS' music is not completely widespread. Despite this, i would definitely recommend this album because not only has it got the mainstream potential of pop songs but the rock sound engages a wider audience where those that would dislike bands such as 'One Direction', can turn to finding something such as this, bearable and very secretly, enjoyable and congenial.

'5 Seconds of Summer' is out now, available on iTunes and from local retailers