Plus 44

Now that the hype over Angels and Airwaves has settled, it's now time for the second of two Blink182 side projects to fully emerge. Plus 44 (Mark Hoppus, Travis Barker, Shane Gallagher of the Nervous Return, Craig Fairbaugh of The Mercy Killers), contrary to Mr. Delonge, have taken a more modest approach to their music. Everything's been kept pretty much under wraps until recently. Only now are we getting glimpses into what the album may sound like, as well as Mark's insight into the Blink breakup. Although only two songs have been released (one of which is only demo quality), I've got a feeling that Plus 44's debut album, When Your Heart Stops Beating, will be better than AVA's We Don't Need to Whisper. P44's two released songs, "No It Isn't" and "Lycanthrope," are both great yet completely different. Fortunately, Hoppus says we should expect a very diverse album, which should come as a sigh of relief for those of us who have become bored with AVA. As much as I enjoy Delonge's latest efforts, every track feels like some toyshop rendition of a U2 song. P44's WYHSB should be a well-rounded effort, containing plenty of electronic tracks as well as standard band tracks. Plus 44 - Lycanthrope Plus 44 - No It Isn't Dates for the band's first tour have been released. I suggest buying tickets for these show once they're on sale. It may be the first and last time they'll be playing club shows. -Adrian