No.66 - ‘Direction’ by The Starting Line (2007)

“I've got stars in my great big sky; I shall gaze upon without leaving small ones behind, because they're harder to find; Some were satellites, others planes; Some were twinkling while others were fading away, but they're all one of a kind…”

I never latched onto the likes of Blink 182 or Sum 41. Surprising, as I spent most my teens listening to Punk Rock. The closest mainstream band of my desire, in the Pop Punk genre, would probably be Green Day. But another Spotify discovery brings us The Starting Line, at 66 in our 100 best albums countdown. 

I don't tend to latch on to the popular bands, but to what my ears like (It’s what this list is all about). And ‘Direction’ takes a look at punk from the alternative rock angle; really good melodies, interesting rhythms and timings, and quite a range of dynamics. Its a far more mature sound than the likes of those bands previously mentioned.

Although I’m not totally enamoured by Kenny Vasoli’s vocals, the melodies suit his voice really well and make for a pleasant listening experience. The punk rock songs are incredibly catchy and the alternative songs take us in interesting directions, which always give hope for more than just your 3 chord wonders. But if you’re a fan of punk rock or alternative rock, give this album a listen. You wont be disappointed.

The Starting Line formed in 1999. ‘Direction’ was their third and final album to be released. It was available on vinyl but is very difficult to find.

Favourite songs - I Could Be Wrong, Something Left To Give, Need To Love, Direction