The Used return with the goodz

Review by Elliott Kluever

    The Used, once the poster children for angsty, early 2000s emo, have returned with a beautiful B-sides album, Medz, a record that proves they've grown up without losing their signature sound. This is not a nostalgic cash-grab, but a genuine evolution, taking the very best from their discography and crafting a mature, powerful, and ultimately, *essential* emo masterpiece.

    From the opening notes of “Before I Leave,” a signature The Used track that blends Warped Tour anthem-worthy soaring drums and guitars with Bert McCracken's signature vocals, it's clear Medz is something special. The album flawlessly blends the raw energy of their self-titled debut with the more melodic, introspective elements of later records like Toxic Positivity.

    There's a vulnerability and honesty to McCracken's lyrics that feels familiar and fresh. Tracks like the title tracks “Medz” and “Pain Is My Therapy” explore heartbreak, disillusionment, and the search for meaning, but with a newfound depth and maturity that reflects the band's journey over the years.

    The band's musicianship is as tight as ever, with each member contributing to the album's sonic richness. The driving rhythms of “People Are Vomit” and the soaring anthemic chorus of “Sisyphus” showcase the band's continued ability to write compelling and infectious songs.

    Medz is not just a return to form, it's an accomplishment. It's a record that celebrates the past while pushing forward, proving that The Used are still a force to be reckoned with. This is emo for the grown-up emo kid, a record that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt lost, loved, and heartbroken. It's a must-listen for any fan of the genre and a perfect introduction for anyone new to The Used's sound.

    Medz releases June 21, 2024, via Big Noise Music Group. You can catch The Used on tour now!