Hype Sticker. In Shrink. 2014 Repress. With Download Card. Light mark on one side.

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Punk rock has always been known for its rebellious and anti-establishment attitude, but one band took it to a whole new level with their 2004 album "Cool To Be You" - Descendents.

Formed in 1977 in Manhattan Beach, California, Descendents are considered pioneers of the punk rock scene, along with bands like Black Flag and Bad Religion. The band consists of lead vocalist Milo Aukerman, guitarist Stephen Egerton, bassist Karl Alvarez, and drummer Bill Stevenson. They have released seven studio albums throughout their career, but "Cool To Be You" stands out as a fan favorite and a defining moment for the band.

The album's title track, "Cool To Be You," sets the tone for the rest of the album with its catchy riffs and relatable lyrics. The song is an anthem for those who have ever felt like an outcast or misunderstood by society. Milo sings, "It's cool to be you, don't let them tell you any different. It's cool to be strange, don't let anyone tell you otherwise." This message of self-acceptance and individuality is a common theme throughout the album.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Nothing With You," a love song that shows a softer side of the band. The song's upbeat tempo and heartfelt lyrics make it a fan favorite at live shows. Milo's vocals shine on this track, showcasing his range and emotion.

Another notable track is "Mass Nerder," a fast-paced and energetic song that pays homage to the band's punk rock roots. The lyrics touch on the struggles of being a misfit and finding solace in the punk rock community. The song's chorus, "Mass nerder, mass nerder, we are the mass nerders," is a rallying cry for all the punk rock outcasts.

One of the reasons "Cool To Be You" stands out is its ability to blend different styles of punk rock. The album has elements of pop-punk, hardcore, and even some melodic moments. This versatility is a testament to the band's talent and musical evolution over the years.

Descendents also tackle social and political issues in songs like " 'Merican" and "Talking." " 'Merican" is a scathing critique of American culture and its obsession with consumerism and materialism. The song's chorus, "We're not 'merican, we're not 'merican, we're not 'merican, we're not 'merican, we're not 'merican," is a powerful statement against conforming to societal norms.

On the other hand, "Talking" addresses the issue of censorship and the importance of free speech. The song's chorus, "We're talking, we're talking, we're talking, we're talking, we're talking, we're talking, we're talking, we're talking," is a call to action for people to speak up and use their voices to make a difference.

"Cool To Be You" was well-received by both fans and critics, with many praising the band's growth and maturity while still staying true to their punk rock roots. The album's production quality is also worth mentioning, as it is much cleaner and polished compared to the band's earlier works.

In conclusion, Descendents' "Cool To Be You" is a standout album in the punk rock genre. Its catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and blend of different punk styles make it a must-listen for any punk rock fan. The album's message of self-acceptance, individuality, and standing up against societal norms is still relevant today, making it a timeless classic. So if you haven't already, give "Cool To Be You" a listen and join the mass nerders in celebrating the beauty of being yourself.