Ah, the late ’90s—an era when emo was just starting to peek out from under its moody bangs, and pop punk was all the rage in the underground scene. Amongst this sonic explosion was Something to Write Home About by The Get Up Kids, which was an emotional lifeline for many. Fast forward 25 years, and we’re blessed with a deluxe reissue that doesn’t just bring back memories; it polishes them up and gives us some new ones to cherish.
The reissue reminds us why Something to Write Home About is often hailed as a genre-defining album. From the infectious opening riffs of ‘Holiday‘ to the heartfelt lyrics of ‘Valentine,’ every track feels just as relevant now as it did in 1999. The remastering is subtle yet effective, bringing a richer depth to the already vibrant soundscapes. It’s like slipping on a pair of old, comfortable Converse—familiar but with a fresh shine.
What’s a reissue without some goodies? The second disc of previously unreleased demos offers a fascinating glimpse into the band’s creative process. It’s an invitation to witness the evolution of the songs that would go on to define a generation. The demo of ‘Ten Minutes‘ is particularly illuminating, showing the rough yet passionate origins of what would become an emo anthem.
This deluxe edition is a love letter to fans. The 28-page large-format booklet is a treasure trove of handwritten lyrics, candid photos, and nostalgic artefacts. It’s the kind of physical content that makes you want to ditch streaming services and actually own a copy just to flip through the pages and feel the connection to the era.
The Get Up Kids carved out a space in the music landscape that would go on to influence bands like Fall Out Boy and My Chemical Romance. This reissue is a testament to their lasting impact, proving that good music doesn’t just fade away—it resonates through the decades.
The Something to Write Home About 25th Anniversary Reissue isn’t just for the die-hard fans; it’s for anyone who appreciates the raw emotion and energy that defined late ’90s emo and pop-punk. With the remastered tracks, unreleased demos, and that gorgeous booklet, it’s clear that The Get Up Kids have once again given us something worth writing home about.
Get your copy here.
TL;DR Review
The Get Up Kids - Something to Write Home About 25th Anniversary Reissue
The 25th Anniversary Reissue of Something to Write Home About is a well-crafted tribute to a genre-defining album, offering a mix of nostalgia, enhanced sound quality, and insight into the band's creative process. While it doesn't break new ground, it's a worthy addition to any fan's collection.
PROS
- Remastered Tracks
- Nostalgia Factor
- Packaging and Extras
- Insightful Demos
CONS
- Mixed Quality of New Material
- Limited Appeal