Coming from another mouth, turns of phrase like ‘Solder new neural pathways deep in my brain’ – from the excellent Headspace – might seem excruciatingly erudite, but that’s what we want from our frontman: uncomfortable honesty, verbosity and vim. If there’s a complaint to be had with Toxic Positivity, it’s that the music isn’t always as interesting as these lines of thought. With its hip-hop hat tip, I Hate Everybody is almost jarring in its derivativeness, while Pinky Swear’s overly muscular verses detract from the loveliness of its chorus – a loveliness further showcased on the twinkling House Of Sand.
The odd disappointing or obvious moment aside, Toxic Positivity is a strong addition to a catalogue. It’s not the best entry, mind, though The Used’s albums work on the listener over time, so who knows where it’ll end up in the affections of fans. And speaking of scrutiny, where are the songs Fuck You and People Are Vomit, released in October and February respectively, and both supposedly cuts from their forthcoming album? Neither has made the cut.
Anyway, in the here and now and with this tracklisting, Toxic Positivity is a vibrant experience, dazzlingly present and characteristically honest, that will invite both qualities in those intoxicated by its charms.
Verdict: 3/5
For fans of: Thursday, Taking Back Sunday, Turnstile
Toxic Positivity is released on May 19 via Hassle