Long-time ForeFront records rock band Bleach finally decided to go with a new label for their latest CD. A lot of people were surprised that Bleach signed with Tooth & Nail, but after a listen to their new CD it may not be quite so surprising. Again, for the First Time finds Bleach with more of a raw sound than previous outings and lyrics that don’t attempt to capitalize on JPMs (Jesus Per Minutes). The result is the best CD that Bleach has in their catalog.
 
Musically, Bleach’s new album seems to be heavily influenced by Weezer. The interesting difference is that Again, for the First Time actually seems like a better CD than Weezer’s Maladroit. The music rarely provides a dull moment. The whole CD is chock full of catchy modern rock tunes. The only time the music slows down is on the closing acoustic tune “Jen’s Song”, a nice way to end the album.
 
The lyrics are where Bleach has Weezer beat. Here we find a level of honesty that is instantly appealing. In weak at the knees, vocalist Dave Baysinger sings “You found me broke last week. Weak at the knees. Collectors been callin’ me. Say you better pay up what you owe. And I don’t know how, I don’t know how I’ll make it out. This hole is big, and my light is starting to burn out.” These are not the kind of songs found on the band’s previous CDs churned out of the Nashville machine. The songs feel like they were written by real people and have words that mean what they say. It’s hard to not relate to a song like “Andy’s Doin’ Time” that talks about life back home and all the things that the band misses while they’re on the road. Even though not all of us are in bands, we know what it’s like to be away. Baysinger provides consolation to both himself and the audience with the words, “We’re moving on an on and on. We’ll head out towards the sun. ‘Cause we’re the lucky ones.” 

Again, for the First Time may not necessarily be anything new, but it’s a well-made CD that deserves a few spins. Some fun, heartfelt rock n’ roll never hurt anyone.
 
~Trae Cadenhead

Bleach are a band that has a modern sound that is extremely melodic and catchy. I found while listening to this album for the first time that I was bobbing my head along with it, without noticing. “Again, For the First Time”, is simply put…a fun album, that is enjoyable to listen. Sugar coated pop melodies that are reminiscent of bands along the lines of Jimmy Eat World, Midtown, Saves the Day and others from the heavier pop-punk genre.

The modern classification of their music would be emo-punk, even though that is a title I try not to give any band (I mean, Isn’t Emo a Muppet?), but this band does fit in with others that are being put in this category.

Certainly nothing original, and groundbreaking, but Bleach does have one very important thing on their side…..song writing ability. They are extremely talented at writing hook-laden melodies, and the rhythm section keeps perfect time throughout the album.

If you like fun, heavier, pop punk, give Bleach a shot.
 
~Derek