Formed in 1991, Pinhead Gunpowder has been somewhat of a modest success. Featuring members of Green Day, Crimpshrine, Monsula, and the Influents, Pinhead Gunpowder have been making music for the sake of music, trying their best to not allow their individual projects to cloud their aims. But, with each release, their music has become more streamlined and less involved. Compulsive Disclosure continues this trend. Instead of retaining songwriting autonomy, the confluence of their respective bands is undeniable, where the distinguishable traits of each songwriter is made painfully obvious.
Although their eclectic approach this time around is commendable, it makes the record a little disjointed, especially since it only lasts 15 minutes. And whereas their earlier releases were characterized by sloppy spontaneity (a wonderful combination, to be sure), Compulsive Disclosure is highly calculated and more distant. Thankfully, it's not cold. The group retains a warmness that not many pop-punk bands can pull-off in this heavily homogenized genre. Their history as a band pierces through the high production, and the charm that was so evident on albums such as Jump Salty and Carry the Banner peak through on songs like "At Your Funeral" and even the acoustic "Landlords."
Overall, Compulsive Disclosure confirms that these musicians are doing exactly what they want to be doing: making pop-punk without pretending that 12 years haven't passed. Sure, I'll miss the cute execution of tracks like "Big Yellow Taxi," "Beastly Bit," and "Walkin' Catastrophe," but these kids have grown up and are not afraid to let their maturity supplant their youthful angst. In fact, it'd be pretty silly if they came out with another album that sounded like it was recorded with a Dictaphone. Although far from their best album, I can't help but respect them even more for releasing it.
1. Buffalo
2. 2nd Street
3. Landlords
4. Porch
5. New Blood
6. Letter From AOF
7. Black Mountain, Pt. 3
8. Crazy Horse
9. At Your Funeral
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