Enema of the State [PA] [by Blink 182, Cassette, 1999]

On their 1997 release, Dude Ranch, juvenile hardcore-pop band Blink 182 tickled the funny bone with an assortment of dumb sex jokes, off-color artwork, and between-song skits, including one of a do... more

On their 1997 release, Dude Ranch, juvenile hardcore-pop band Blink 182 tickled the funny bone with an assortment of dumb sex jokes, off-color artwork, and between-song skits, including one of a dog drinking from a freshly peed in toilet. So, two years down the road, have the band matured at all? One look at the cover of <I>Enema of the State</I>, which features cover art of a tarted-up blonde nurse donning a rubber glove, provides the easy answer. Fortunately, <I>Enema</I> supports the humor with strong musicianship. The songs are more dynamic and multitempoed than those on <I>Dude Ranch</I>, sounding like a cross between the Descendents and Fountains of Wayne. And unlike the glut of alt-rock releases that offer one or two memorable songs, <i>Enema</i> is flush with instantly memorable melodies and ear-pleasing harmonies. Good, dirty fun--no more, no less. <I>--Jon Wiederhorn</I> less