Album Review: After The Fall - Bittersweet

It doesn't seem that long ago that After The Fall was being tipped as the next big thing courtesy hits like Mirror Mirror and Concrete Boots, but after a disappointing third record it's good to see the Central Coast lads have returned to form on their latest self-produced offering, Bittersweet.

These guys have always known how to write a catchy, radio-worthy pop song with a hard edge to it and there's plenty of those to be found on this album. It opens strong, with All I Am setting the tone for an angry break-up album with a real hook. The title track is even harder, with both Bittersweet and Lies reminiscent of an early Grinspoon.

The album is consistent throughout with some classic After The Fall sounds to be found on tracks like Dirty Sheets and Never There, which will no doubt please loyal fans who have stuck by them. These songs also highlight one of the best things about the album – the lack of filler. The LP finishes with just as much guts as it starts with.

There is a lot of passion on Bittersweet. After The Fall obviously had a lot to prove to themselves and their fans and neither should be disappointed. They have managed to stay true to the original sound that boded well for them when they first broke onto the scene. The album is probably lacking any risk or major progression but sometimes playing it safe is the smartest thing a band can do. The next challenge will be to see whether they can move forward rather than just continue ruminating on their former glories.