Nine is not the type of release that’s destined to initiate an upsurge of new Blink-182 fans, but for those diehards still repping the So-Cal pop-punk legends after 25 years, it’s guaranteed to please. 

Aptly named, Nine is the band’s ninth release — if you include their first demo, Buddha — and the second after Tom Delonge’s most recent departure, with Alkaline Trio frontman, Matt Skiba, stepping in as his stage left replacement. 

Although the world around them has changed almost shockingly in the passing years, the recipe for what makes a catchy summer love song remains the same. Hoppus’ patented monotone croon pairs exceptionally well with Skiba’s own unique vocals and alt-rock influence. Despite the formulaic song-structure and predictable lyrics, the melodies are bound to have even the most casual listener humming on their drive home from work. 

It’s a 15-track pop-punk jam full of anthems, ballads, and a couple speedier bangers sure to feed that Blink fix for at least another summer or two. Plug in your headphones, close your eyes, and enjoy what might be one last taste of the mid 2000s.

Best Track: Black Rain

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