Good Charlotte – “Cardiology”

On November 2nd, 2010, pop-rock group Good Charlotte is finally releasing their sixth studio record. The band originally recorded material with producer Howard Benson, but discarded it because they were unsatisfied with the results. They then hired producer Don Gilmore, who also produced their 2007 release Good Morning Revival, to create the anticipated new record Cardiology.

Cardiology begins with an acapella-esque introduction where Joel’s dominant vocals sing the chorus of the title track over melodic background vocals. This slow-paced introduction does not coincide with the fast pop-punk tracks that the album entails and feels out of place. The second track, “Let the Music Play” is relatable to all who listen to music religiously. Joel sings about how music can impact a person over a dance-rock beat. The album’s first single, “Like it’s Her Birthday”, is an infectious tune with contagious hooks that would make every girl dance and sing abruptly on their special day. However, the lyrics about an out of control party girl are quite ironic considering Benji Madden is Paris Hilton’s ex-boyfriend and Joel Madden is engaged to and has children with socialite Nicole Ritchie.

Cardiology exhibits the pop-punk sound that Good Charlotte is known for, but also presents the transition from teen angst-ridden rock to more mature themes like married life and fatherhood. “Harlow’s Song (Can’t Dream Without You)” is a wonderful ballad dedicated to Joel’s daughter, proclaiming his love over a soft piano. In “First Plane Home”, Joel expresses how he’s afraid of missing his children grow up while on tour. The band’s maturity is also noted in “Right Where I Belong” which has a more alternative sound that is much different than their billboard hits. But don’t worry old-school Good Charlotte fans, songs like “Counting the Days” and “Standing Ovation” still encompass those familiar themes of escaping a system and making the most out of your days.

The title track of the album, in my opinion, is probably the worst track on the record. As the song progresses, I found the background vocals to become annoying and the lyrics, the prevailing force of the song, lack quality and depth. I believe that this song is not an accurate definition of the collection of songs on the record because its dark tones do not contrast with the upbeat songs on the collection of tracks on the record, causing it to be the odd one out.

Overall, this record does not justify the amount of time spent in creating it. Good Charlotte does not necessarily stray or evolve from their generic sound but nevertheless, it is obvious that the band has come a long way from complaining about the lifestyles of the rich and famous and these songs are evidence that Good Charlotte are still able to write teen friendly radio hits six records later.  [ END ]

Track Listing:

01. Introduction to Cardiology
02. Let the Music Play
03. Counting the Days
04. Silver Screen Romance
05. Like It’s Her Birthday
06. Sex On The Radio
07. Alive
08. Standing Ovation
09. Harlow’s Song (Can’t Dream Without You)
10. First Plane Home
11. Interlude: The Fifth Chamber
12. 1979
13. There She Goes
14. Right Where I Belong
15. Cardiology

Run Time:
Release Date: 11.02.2010