Twelve years after the release of their transformative ‘American Idiot’, perhaps ‘Revolution Radio’ will finally release Green Day from the shackles of early year comparisons. It certainly holds the right cards to do so. Because Green Day haven’t been the same band that made the often idolised ‘Dookie’ in quite some time, and rightly so. If anything, ‘Revolution Radio’ continues their strong politicised journey; a clear product of current times, yet one that amalgamates both their punk rock tradition and their melodic ability.
A huge leap forward from the disposable trio of ‘¡Uno!’, ‘¡Dos!’ and ‘¡Tré!’, ‘Revolution Radio’ strips back the overt theatrics, accentuating Green Day’s ability to pen brilliantly simple melodies. The record sees them further embrace wider influences, yet wraps these perfectly in their distinctive style. Both lead single ‘Bang Bang’ and ‘Youngblood’ are Green Day at their finest, delivering short sharp punk rock anthems.
The record’s mantra is clearest on the six-plus minute ‘Forever Now’. “My name is Billie and I’m freaking out,” vocalist Armstrong opens, launching into “standing at the edge of the world, it’s giving me the chills.” Ever vocal about their dissatisfaction with the political climate, ‘Revolution Radio’ is a product of genuine fear. In among the upbeat melodies Green Day express the all too real possibility of liberal uncertainty, ultimately calling for the title’s revolution.
Yet above all else, ‘Revolution Radio’ presents an assured Green Day. The melodramatics that characterised the punk veterans’ post-‘Warning’ have dissipated, replaced by a newfound confidence in their style and sound. With that, Green Day have re-established themselves as poignant and relevant, some thirty years into their career.
BEN TIPPLE