Transit - Joyride (2014)

In recent years, Transit have gradually become more mainstream alternative in sound. If you were to revisit Keep This To Yourself (2010), you’ll hear that the band started as a primarily punk group blending indie rock. By the time they had joined Rise and released Listen & Forgive (2012), they began showing signs of maturation in the length of melodic calmness. While Young New England (2013) had a heart gilded in punk soul, the record, as a whole, still felt like it was wearing a blanket of alternative influence. Still, it was a step back to a more familiar honesty in the band. That now brings us to Joyride, the band’s third Rise release, and their most relaxed collection.

The first track, “The Only One,” plays like “Nothing Lasts Forever” from Young New England; it’s got a sweet honesty equivalent to a Wes Anderson film, and becomes more memorable with every fresh spin. Jump ahead several tracks, and Joyride gives us its most upbeat moments. Starting with “Sweet Resistance,” the album rediscovers some of the band’s desired energy. The chorus is catchy, the verses bouncy, and the lyrics classic Transit. Then you have “Nothing Left To Lose,” which is simple, yet undeniably fun and entertaining. In its second half, the record slows down more by comparison. “Fine By Me,” “Loneliness Burns,” and “Summer Dust” are the most enjoyable from this bunch, and are primarily fueled by contemporary styles.

Though Transit have put together another fine record, Joyride is just a bit too alternative for my tastes. Even its cover looks like that of a mainstream artist; its cute in a poignant, yearning sense, but uncomplicated. Much like this record. Maybe I’m just sore because I liked Transit better when they were pumping their fists more often, or maybe it’s because I’ve been in a punk rock phase as of late. Whatever the case, Joyride is still a well written record with plenty to offer, especially if you’re a fan of Train or Plain White T’s. (Nathaniel Lay)