To begin with, the 10-track album presents a refreshing twist on punk rock. While it adheres to the familiar punk framework featuring melodic riffs, dynamic beats, and strong vocals, I sense there’s more to it. I particularly appreciated how each element stood out distinctly; for instance, the vocals and bass in the second track, Feelings First, and the vibrant opening of the first track, Set It Straight.

Reflecting on my 2021 interview with Joe Stanton, the frontman of Merit Maker, I was truly impressed by him as both the bassist and the singer-songwriter of the project, which has seen various artists come and go over the years. Why do I emphasize the bass, you ask? I’ve always believed that songs built around a strong bassline tend to be the finest, whether in terms of structure or songwriting.

I observed that Stanton was eager to maintain the album’s energetic vibes, which greatly contribute to preserving the punk spirit. However, I also appreciated the inclusion of diverse elements such as hard rock, alternative, and melodic influences. For instance, “The Stolen Hearts” features powerful riffs while evoking a deep emotional response in any listener. This is truly remarkable!

As an experienced bassist, there’s no need to delve into discussions about beats and rhythm here. I truly appreciated how tight and straightforward the drums were. This simplicity is refreshing, especially since many newcomers tend to overcomplicate things! Yet, the heaviness and relatability of the music showcase true mastery.

As you progress through the album, particularly with tracks like Around Again, Two Steps Ahead, and New Chapter, you’ll find yourself captivated by the emotive and powerful vocals, especially when paired with his long-time collaborator, guitarist Mitchell Layton. The harmony between these musicians is noticeable, and I thoroughly enjoyed the guitar lines. The lead guitar contributes a smooth touch to the overall album. Trust me when I say that adding the perfect guitar lick is an art that not everyone can master these days. This is precisely why I adore this record.

As you dive deeper into tracks such as “Upsides of Downsides” and “Summer Days,” you’ll notice that the album achieves a remarkable level of stability and mastery. I observed that this record showcases the considerable influence of Joe Stanton’s musical style. It’s truly enjoyable, as it feels like you’re experiencing multiple iconic bands all within one project.

With the closing tracks “Liftoffs,” “Landings,” and “Roads Ahead,” you’ll appreciate the cohesive structure and production quality. Oh, and when it comes to mixing and mastering, I particularly admire Michael Harmon’s approach; he ensured that every individual element is distinctly audible, delivering a rich experience for the listener.

“Rockin’ music project bringing punk rock back!” I truly appreciate how Joe Stanton encapsulates his project, Merit Maker, with this phrase. It serves as an excellent motto that perfectly represents his artistic vision. Moreover, Merit Maker is more than just a band releasing a new album; I genuinely believe that Joe will soon become one of the icons of punk rock. Cheers!