Weezer: ‘Make Believe’
THE CD: “Make Believe”
PERFORMER: Weezer
Has it been 10 years already? With the release of their fifth studio album, “Make Believe,” Weezer rightfully reclaims the throne in the pantheon of rock gods.
“Beverly Hills,” the first single, is a tongue-in-cheek ode to Tinseltown and the stars that shine (or fade) there. For singer-songwriter Rivers Cuomo, however, no cheese or floss need apply.
The band has gone through a couple of bassists since it burst on the scene with “Undone, The Sweater Song.” If you’ve had a chance to see the video for “Beverly Hills,” original bassist (and Rentals frontman) Matt Sharp is likely kicking himself for splitting after “Pinkerton.”
Cuomo’s lyrics are insightful, humorous, and self-deprecating. “Perfect Situation” is a good example of this, with Cuomo taking stock of a relationship: Though I can’t satisfy all the needs she has and so she starts to wonder/Can you blame her?
Classic.
Worth it
Musically, Rivers is apparently a dictator. Weezer is his band. The musical style has changed from the surf-rock style of their debut, but it’s been a gradual thing.
Every Weezer CD I’ve ever bought has been worth the price. It’s rare when you can look back at a CD you bought 10 years ago and say ‘That was worth it.’
The songs have a timeless feel. Not only does Cuomo LOOK like he would fit in with Buddy Holly, his lyrics are in line with all the great troubadours, romantics, and assorted losers (his words) who decided to sing a love song.
From eyewitness accounts, Weezer was a fan favorite at that flag-flying freak-fest that is the Warped Tour. So many piercings, tattoos, and now, eye liner, can’t be wrong. Their music precedes them; the lyrics are the message, and that, too is rare these days.
Oh, and contrary to what you may (I really doubt that you did) have read in other publications (I’m looking at you, Graffiti), the last two records were not “two strikes.” I don’t know what to say to the girl who wrote that. I know she’s not deaf, so, —- ?
God bless the Weez.
– Nick Harrah
