Having just reviewed AMERICAN IDIOT for a future issue of Amplifier, my
initial impression was one of a band coming to a fork in the road regarding
their musical style (how far can you go as a three-piece) and the fact that
they're all thirtysomething family men in a (perceived) youth-oriented
medium.

Musically, this is a great rock 'n' roll album--good tunes, tight
arrangements--exploring every possible nuance of the band's slash 'n' burn
style.

Don't ignore the content--AMERICAN IDIOT is a major political statement. It
may not be as articulate or as musically adventurous as The Clash's LONDON
CALLING but it sure feels like the right album in the right place at the
right time.

Brad Harvey
NP: GIANT ON THE BEACH by The Grip Weeds