Album Anniversary: Midtown - Living Well is the Best Revenge
Released: April 14, 2002
In 2002, Living Well was received with mixed reviews from critics. While praised for its catchy hooks and smooth delivery of nasty lyrics, the album was given mixed reviews for its lack of originality and moreover, it’s lack of defining character. 15 years later, this consensus still stands. Although Midtown’s sophomore release has it’s high moments (bookends “Become What You Hate” and “Find Comfort In Yourself” in particular), it contradicts itself; while it’s 11 tracks all lack originality and distinction from - one another and from similar releases of the time - it simultaneously lacks cohesion. Songs like “Perfect” and “You Should Know” show differentiation from their counterparts on Living Well, but this does not benefit them – in fact, it turns them into the albums lowest points. Poorly placed keyboards and cliché lyrics create a stew of poor execution and add a juvenile feeling to the record. Given this, the album also lays solid grounds, not only for Midtown but for future pop-punk bands, who employ similar constructions and tactics as Midtown have, for success in blending crunchy guitar with caustic, nasally vocals in the most endearing way. In short, Living Well is the Best Revenge has stood the test of time due to its place as a paving stone for bands to come, and remains an album with strong foundation but something more to be desired.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
For Fans Of: The Starting Line, Saves The Day, Story of the Year
Listen To: “Become What You Hate”, “Find Comfort In Yourself”, “There’s No Going Back”
