Anberlin – ‘Nevertake’ [Album Review]

The year was 2005; a little band named Anberlin released their sophomore album, Never Take Friendship Personal. The record was released to critical acclaim and is now regarded as one of the defining albums of the early ’00s Warped Tour scene. Two decades later, the band is back and has been on the road celebrating the anniversary of this iconic album (check out our coverage). However, the group has undergone a few changes, with the biggest being the introduction of new frontman Matty Mullins (Memphis May Fire).

Nevertake is not only a re-recording of the band’s classic sophomore album, but it is a celebration of all of their achievements and history. The biggest change that first-time listeners will notice is that longtime frontman Stephen Christian is not the one singing on this release, but rather has Mullins fronting instead. The most interesting tidbit about this release is that Mullins has always been a lifelong Anberlin fan, even wearing an Anberlin shirt in one of his high school yearbook photos.

Mullins’ unique vocal style and charisma infuse a breath of fresh air into these classic tracks. All 11 rerecorded tracks remain faithful and true to their original counterparts, but are jam-packed with small details that make this release stand out. Some of the new changes include Mullins’ signature screams in the tracks “Never Take Friendship Personal” and “A Feel Good Drag,” previously unheard electronic sounds in “The Runaways” and the inclusion of the band’s longtime guitarist, Christian McAlhaney, taking over the role of the band’s late guitarist, Nathan Strayer.

While Nevertake is a different take on the band’s LP, it is not simply a recording, but a tribute to their fans, old and new. Is this release for everyone? The answer depends on whether you can accept change or not. Ever since the announcement of Mullins’ inclusion, longtime fans have been a bit divided. Throughout life, change is inevitable; it is up to you to decide whether you can adapt to it or leave certain things in the past. The simple truth is that Anberlin has changed, but they are proud of what they’ve accomplished, and they will always be devoted to their past, with the proof being the members having given this album the love and care it deserves.

Nevertake Track Listing:

1. Never Take Friendship Personal
2. Paperthin Hymn
3. Stationary Stationery
4. (The Symphony Of) Blase
5. A Day Late
6. The Runaways
7. Time & Confusion
8. A Feel Good Drag
9. Audrey, Start The Revolution!
10. A Heavy Hearted Work Of Staggering Genius
11. Dance, Dance, Christa Paffgen

Run Time: 43:53
Release Date: March 21, 2025
Record Label: Equal Vision Records