New Again
{{other uses|New Again (disambiguation)}}
{{good article}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2025}}
{{Use American English|date=March 2017}}
{{Infobox album
| name = New Again
| type = studio
| artist = Taking Back Sunday
| cover = TakingbacksundayNEWAGAIN.jpg
| alt =
| released = June 2, 2009
| recorded = September–November 2008
| studio = {{hlist|Avatar, See Squared and J-Rock, New York City, New York
NRG, North Hollywood, California
The Village, Los Angeles, California}}
| genre = {{hlist|Alternative rock|pop rock|{{nowrap|pop punk}}|post-hardcore}}
| length = 38:01
| label = Warner Bros.
| producer = David Kahne, Matt Squire
| prev_title = Louder Now
| prev_year = 2006
| next_title = Taking Back Sunday
| next_year = 2011
| misc = {{Singles
| name =
| type = studio
| single1 = Carpathia
| single1date = April 18, 2009
| single2 = Sink into Me
| single2date = April 24, 2009
| single3 = New Again
| single3date = July 24, 2009
| single4 = Where My Mouth Is
| single4date = September 1, 2009
}}
}}
New Again is the fourth studio album by American rock band Taking Back Sunday. When guitarist Fred Mascherino left the group after the Projekt Revolution tour ended in September 2007, band members took a break after years of touring. New Again was recorded in October and November 2008 at several studios in New York and California with David Kahne and Matt Squire as producers. Matthew Fazzi of Facing New York joined Taking Back Sunday in early 2008. He was praised by vocalist Adam Lazzara and the group's manager for incorporating new instruments into the group's sound. Guitarist Eddie Reyes called the album "one of the most aggressive records we've ever written". Towards the end of 2008, the group revealed the album's title, went on a US tour, and made "Carpathia" available for streaming.
Following a European tour in April 2009, the title-track was released as a free download. Later in the month, "Carpathia" was released as a Record Store Day release, and "Sink into Me" was released as a single. After "Everything Must Go" was made available for streaming, the band toured the US in May and June. New Again was released on June 2 through Warner Bros. Records, with several editions of the album featuring bonus tracks and video content. Following the release of the title-track as a single in July, the group had a support slot on Blink-182's North American tour in August and September. The group embarked on a short US tour in October, followed by a co-headlining US tour with The All-American Rejects in November and December. After an appearance at Soundwave festival in Australia in February and March 2010, Fazzi and Rubano left the group; in their place, former members John Nolan and Shaun Cooper returned to the band.
New Again sold 48,000 copies in its first week of release, charting at number 7 on the Billboard 200. It also reached the top 10 on several other Billboard charts. The album also reached the top 40 in Canada and Australia. "Sink into Me" reached the top 40 on the Alternative Songs and Hot Rock Songs charts. New Again received a generally favorable response from critics, who praised the album's sound and Lazzara's vocals despite the latter's own dislike of the record. Subsequently, few songs have been performed live after the release of the band's fifth studio album, Taking Back Sunday. "Everything Must Go,” “Catholic Knees,” and “Lonely, Lonely” have made rare appearances, with no other songs from the album being played.
Background
In June 2007, vocalist Adam Lazzara said Taking Back Sunday were preparing to write the follow-up album to Louder Now (2006).{{cite web|url=http://www2.kerrang.com/2007/06/taking_back_sunday_start_work.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071223173527/http://www2.kerrang.com/2007/06/taking_back_sunday_start_work.html|title=Taking Back Sunday start work on new album|work=Kerrang!|publisher=Bauer Media Group|author=Dan|date=June 7, 2007|archive-date=December 23, 2007|access-date=March 12, 2017}} In July, bassist Matthew Rubano mentioned that the other members of the band were in the process of writing individually in separate locations: Rubano in Manhattan, Lazzara in Texas, guitarist Fred Mascherino in Jersey, drummer Mark O'Connell on Long Island and guitarist Eddie Reyes in Ohio.{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/features/entry/takingback|title=Web Exclusive Interview: Taking Back Sunday|work=Alternative Press|author=French, Chris|date=July 26, 2007|access-date=March 7, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308145638/http://www.altpress.com/features/entry/takingback|archive-date=March 8, 2017}} From late July to early September, the band participated in the 2007 Projekt Revolution tour.{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1559005/linkin-park-my-chemical-romance-taking-back-sunday-to-headline-projekt-revolution/|title=Linkin Park, My Chemical Romance, Taking Back Sunday To Headline Projekt Revolution|work=MTV|publisher=Viacom|author=Montgomery, James|date=May 7, 2007|access-date=March 7, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170708151132/http://www.mtv.com/news/1559005/linkin-park-my-chemical-romance-taking-back-sunday-to-headline-projekt-revolution/|archive-date=July 8, 2017}} During the tour, they brought along a mobile recording studio and demoed material, and continued writing for their next album. Plans to do serious writing, as well as record their next album towards the end of the year, were in place.
However, Mascherino left the band following the end of the tour. He said, "It was getting to the point where I felt I had taken the road as long as I possibly could," and his compositions were "more pop than anyone else [in the band] wanted to go".{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1571245/taking-back-sunday-guitaristsinger-fred-mascherino-leaves-band-talks-solo-project/|title=Taking Back Sunday Guitarist/Singer Fred Mascherino Leaves Band, Talks Solo Project|work=MTV|publisher=Viacom|author=Montgomery, James|date=October 4, 2007|access-date=March 7, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161106152911/http://www.mtv.com/news/1571245/taking-back-sunday-guitaristsinger-fred-mascherino-leaves-band-talks-solo-project/|archive-date=November 6, 2016}} In October, the group revealed that their next album was "in its very early stages".{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=8925|title=Guitarist Fred Mascherino Leaves Taking Back Sunday|work=Melodic|author=Spinelli, Tom|date=October 5, 2007|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309082434/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=8925|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} In December, Rubano said the group was in New York City working on new material, having already written six songs.{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=9306|title=Taking Back Sunday Moves Along on Recording New Album|work=Melodic|author=Spinelli, Tom|date=December 12, 2007|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309082454/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=9306|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} Prior to demoing, O'Connell had to have back surgery,{{cite web|url=http://www.drummagazine.com/features/post/mark-oconnell-on-the-hot-seat/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150721101928/http://www.drummagazine.com/features/post/mark-oconnell-on-the-hot-seat |title=Mark O'Connell on the Hot Seat! |work=Drum! |author=Cobb, Jared |date=January 11, 2010 |archive-date=July 21, 2015 |access-date=March 10, 2017 |url-status=dead }} having injured it during the Projekt Revolution tour.{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_2412|title=Ex-Matchbook Romance drummer joins Taking Back Sunday|work=Alternative Press|date=August 3, 2007|access-date=August 25, 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160829005638/http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_2412|archive-date=August 29, 2016|df=mdy-all}} During the demoing process, the group tried different drummers, but according to Rubano: "They just weren't Mark. Not enough ferocity, intensity." Following this, the band's members took time to refocus themselves after several years of constant touring. Lazzara sorted his life out following addiction issues, ending his engagement to Chauntelle DuPree of Eisley. He subsequently moved to another town, got married, and had a child. O'Connell also got married, Reyes spent time with his family, and Rubano recorded music for the TV show Electric Company.
In May 2008, it was announced that guitarist Matthew Fazzi, formerly of Facing New York, had joined the band.{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=10288|title=Taking Back Sunday Announce New Guitarist|work=Melodic|author=Spinelli, Tom|date=May 9, 2008|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309082425/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=10288|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} Reyes, who had met Fazzi during Facing New York's stint on the 2004 Warped Tour, asked him by text whether he wanted to audition for Taking Back Sunday.{{cite web|url=http://tech.mit.edu/V129/N55/tbsinter.html|title=Matthew Fazzi Tells All|work=The Tech|author=Wang, Kevin|date=November 20, 2009|access-date=March 9, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312042307/http://tech.mit.edu/V129/N55/tbsinter.html|archive-date=March 12, 2017}} In a statement, the group called Fazzi "talented and versed in many musical instruments", mentioning that he would be "bring[ing] his unique talent and style to the mix".{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_3836|title=Taking Back Sunday announce new guitarist|work=Alternative Press|date=May 7, 2008|access-date=July 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809144730/http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_3836|archive-date=August 9, 2017|url-status=dead}} Rubano was uneasy with Fazzi initially: "He was this very nice, very talented, ambitious, happy guy, and I was like, 'This guy isn't going to last with us, this guy's the wrong fit.'"{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/news/entry/ex_taking_back_sunday_bassist_opens_up_about_getting_kicked_out|title=Ex-Taking Back Sunday bassist opens up about getting kicked out|work=Alternative Press|date=January 21, 2016|access-date=March 7, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161026174810/http://www.altpress.com/news/entry/ex_taking_back_sunday_bassist_opens_up_about_getting_kicked_out|archive-date=October 26, 2016}} Around this time, Fazzi and Rubano visited Lazzara in Texas; accompanied by acoustic guitars and a bass, the trio practiced in Lazzara's living room.Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 1:18–27 Here, the trio wrote "New Again" which helped "catapult the energy for the beginning of writing [New Again] forward," according to Rubano.Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 1:28–39, 1:55–2:00 During an appearance at the Virgin Mobile Festival in August 2008, Spin reported that the band was on the brink of entering a recording studio.{{cite web|url=http://www.spin.com/2008/08/live-virgin-mobile-festival-08-taking-back-sunday/|title=Live at Virgin Mobile Festival '08: Taking Back Sunday|work=Spin|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|author=Staff|date=August 11, 2008|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309064554/http://www.spin.com/2008/08/live-virgin-mobile-festival-08-taking-back-sunday/|archive-date=March 9, 2017}}
Production
In September 2008, the band began recording a new album aiming to release it in early 2009.{{cite web|url=http://www.spin.com/2008/10/taking-back-sunday-recording-new-album/|title=Taking Back Sunday Recording New Album|work=Spin|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|author=Goodman, William|date=October 2, 2008|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161115135011/http://www.spin.com/2008/10/taking-back-sunday-recording-new-album/|archive-date=November 15, 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/30444/taking-back-sunday-enter-studio|title=Taking Back Sunday enter studio|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Reinecker, Meg|date=September 15, 2008|access-date=June 19, 2022}} They initially wanted Eric Valentine as a producer, but according to Lazzara, "the timing didn't work".{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/features/entry/taking_it_forward_the_first_post-announcement_qa_with_taking_back_sundays_a|title=Taking It Forward: The first post-announcement Q&A with Taking Back Sunday's Adam Lazzara|work=Alternative Press|author=Pettigrew, Jason|date=April 12, 2010|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309074619/http://www.altpress.com/features/entry/taking_it_forward_the_first_post-announcement_qa_with_taking_back_sundays_a|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} David Kahne produced the sessions and engineered the overdubs. He aimed to capture the "power and scope" of the band's live performances.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/268678/exclusive-video-taking-back-sundays-latest-epic|title=Exclusive Video: Taking Back Sunday's Latest Epic|magazine=Billboard|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|author=Wood, Mikael|date=May 8, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309060544/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/268678/exclusive-video-taking-back-sundays-latest-epic|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} The group worked with Kahne because of Fazzi. According to Lazzara, when the band learned he produced Paul McCartney's Memory Almost Full (2007) album, they said, "let's go work with him".{{cite web|url=https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/interviews/taking_back_sundays_guitarist_i_went_to_ug_to_see_tabs_for_tbs_songs.html|title=Taking Back Sunday's Guitarist: 'I Went To UG To See Tabs For TBS Songs' {{!}} Music News|author=Rosen, Steven|publisher=Ultimate Guitar Archive|date=July 18, 2011|access-date=March 12, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170313043420/https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/interviews/taking_back_sundays_guitarist_i_went_to_ug_to_see_tabs_for_tbs_songs.html|archive-date=March 13, 2017}} Evil Joe Barresi engineered the tracking, with additional production and engineering performed by Jamie Siegel.
Recording was done at Avatar Studios, with Justin Gerrish, and at See Squared Studios in New York City. The majority of the album was recorded in five days.{{cite web|url=http://www.coloradodaily.com/ci_12961728|title=Taking Back Sunday sounds 'New Again'|work=Colorado Daily|publisher=MediaNews Group|author=Kale, Wendy|date=May 22, 2009|access-date=March 9, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312042653/http://www.coloradodaily.com/ci_12961728|archive-date=March 12, 2017}} Additional recording took place at J-Rock Studios in New York City, with Anthony Lenoci. "Sink into Me" was recorded at J-Rock Studios, as well as NRG Studios in North Hollywood, California, and The Village in Los Angeles, California. "Where My Mouth Is" was produced by Matt Squire with engineer Bill Appleberry. It was recorded at NRG Studios, with assistance from Casey Lewis, and at The Village, with help from Jared Nugent. Squire also provided additional production and engineering on "Sink into Me".
On October 24, the band mentioned that they had nearly finishing recording the album and would start the mixing process shortly afterwards.{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_4971|title=Taking Back Sunday nearly complete recording|work=Alternative Press|date=October 24, 2008|access-date=July 26, 2017}} On November 6, the band announced they were "still putting the finshing {{sic}} touches on the album".{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/31165/taking-back-sunday-wrapping-up-album-set-title|title=Taking Back Sunday wrapping up album, set title|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Paul, Aubin|date=November 6, 2008|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309075042/https://www.punknews.org/article/31165/taking-back-sunday-wrapping-up-album-set-title|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} The recordings were mixed by Tom Lord-Alge with Fernio Hernandez at South Beach Studios in Miami, Florida. Ted Jensen mastered the recordings at Sterling Sound in New York City. In retrospect, Lazzara called Kahne "a good producer," but didn't think he was "the right fit" for the group. He added that what the group aimed to accomplish was "just different than what he had envisioned both sonically and with all of that stuff". Reyes said he was "pre-warned about working with him and I didn't listen to that. ... It was kind of very blank. I think I put my guitar tracks on and then I flew back home and that was it."
Music and lyrics
=Overview=
An early title for the album was When All Is Said and Done More Is Said Than Done, suggested by Fazzi. The group liked it, however, Fazzi said it was "way too long to fit on a side of a CD".{{cite web|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/news/read/taking-back-sunday-naming-record|title=Taking Back Sunday Naming Record|work=Rock Sound|publisher=Freeway Press Inc|author=Rock Sound|date=September 2, 2008|access-date=March 12, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170313043143/http://www.rocksound.tv/news/read/taking-back-sunday-naming-record|archive-date=March 13, 2017}} According to Lazzara, the album was given the title New Again because "that's what it feels like. We are in a totally different band, just because there has been this new life breathed into the band with the addition of Matt[hew Fazzi]."{{cite web|url=http://fasterlouder.junkee.com/taking-back-sunday/809280|title=Taking Back Sunday|work=FasterLouder|publisher=Junkee Media|author=Hutton, Sarah|date=February 24, 2010|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309063518/http://fasterlouder.junkee.com/taking-back-sunday/809280|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} The album was written in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Here, Rubano said the group "stuck out on the street because we were so loud".{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/taking-back-sunday-ready-new-again-before-blink-182-tour-20090527|title=Taking Back Sunday Ready "New Again" Before Blink-182 Tour|magazine=Rolling Stone|publisher=Jann Wenner|author=Futterman, Erica|access-date=August 9, 2017|date=May 27, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130203190227/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/taking-back-sunday-ready-new-again-before-blink-182-tour-20090527|archive-date=February 3, 2013|url-status=live}} For the album, the band embraced the concept that "it's up to us to decide what Taking Back Sunday sounds like. We always want to be redefining what that means, and there's stuff on this record I think in the past we would have stayed away from", according to Rubano. Fazzi said the group wanted to "put a new foot forward ... to show people that we're expanding the music". He noted that the song structures and chord patterns were "just a bit stronger and smarter".{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1610954/taking-back-sunday-change-it-up-on-new-again/|title=Taking Back Sunday Change It Up On New Again|work=MTV|publisher=Viacom|author=Montgomery, James|date=May 8, 2009|access-date=March 7, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308133843/http://www.mtv.com/news/1610954/taking-back-sunday-change-it-up-on-new-again/|archive-date=March 8, 2017}}
According to Lazzara, Fazzi was a major contributor in writing New Again. The band was, "Experimenting ... [with] a lot of different instruments, horns, glockenspiels, there's a flautist on the record. And it's stuff we never would've tried before."{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1608988/taking-back-sunday-join-the-online-haters-instead-of-sitting-back/|title=Taking Back Sunday Join The Online Haters Instead Of 'Sitting Back'|work=MTV|publisher=Viacom|author=Montgomery, James|date=April 9, 2009|access-date=March 7, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170307210206/http://www.mtv.com/news/1608988/taking-back-sunday-join-the-online-haters-instead-of-sitting-back/|archive-date=March 7, 2017}} Jillian Newman, the group's manager, also mentioned Fazzi's influence: "[Fazzi] brought a really positive, happy energy to the band. A lot of the walls came down during writing. He allowed everybody to try new things." They were able to do three-part vocal harmonies as Rubano was beginning to sing in the band.{{cite web|url=http://www.smashmagazine.com/magazine/issue34-features-takinbacksunday.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20211214223354/http://www.smashmagazine.com/magazine/issue34-features-takinbacksunday.html|title=You're Gonna Get Your Head Blown Off Takimg Back Sunday|work=Smash Magazine|author=Palms, Alexis|archivedate=December 14, 2021|accessdate=December 14, 2021}} With New Again, Lazzara considered his lyrics to be "a lot more forward," compared those on earlier songs. Reyes called the album "one of the most aggressive records we've ever written". The album's sound has been described as alternative rock,{{cite web|url=https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/30713/Taking-Back-Sunday-New-Again/|title=Taking Back Sunday - New Again (album review 9)|website=Sputnikmusic|author=Knott, Adam|date=May 28, 2009|access-date=December 9, 2017}} pop punk, pop rock{{cite web|url=http://consequenceofsound.net/2009/07/album-review-taking-back-sunday-new-again/|title=Taking Back Sunday – New Again {{!}} Album Reviews|work=Consequence of Sound|author=Young, Alex|date=July 1, 2009|access-date=March 12, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312195919/http://consequenceofsound.net/2009/07/album-review-taking-back-sunday-new-again/|archive-date=March 12, 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/reviews/read/taking-back-sunday-new-again|title=Taking Back Sunday - 'New Again' - Reviews|work=Rock Sound|publisher=Freeway Press Inc|author=Newbound, Tim|date=June 3, 2009|access-date=March 12, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170313042153/http://www.rocksound.tv/reviews/read/taking-back-sunday-new-again|archive-date=March 13, 2017}} and post-hardcore,{{cite magazine | title = Taking Back Sunday - New Again| date = July 2009 | pages = 117 |magazine= Q|publisher=Bauer Media Group |quote="The result is an impressive but super slick collection of post-hardcore floor-fillers that's increasingly more "post" than "hardcore." }} shifting away from the emo sound of their earlier work.
=Songs=
Rubano had a bassline that, within an hour of playing it, became the track "New Again."Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 1:00–12 After writing it, Fazzi said it was a "no-brainer for an opener".Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 0:19–23 O'Connell called it "powerful" and said it "sets the mood" for the album.Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 0:25–29 One day during rehearsals, Fazzi played a guitar riff, then O'Connell played along, resulting in "Sink into Me."Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 4:11–19 The song begins with cheerleader-esque "hey!"s that Fazzi came up with,Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 4:19–26 as well as handclaps. Lazzara referred to it as a "freight train. ... if you were to stand in front of it, you would get pummeled". Lazzara also mentioned that the music to it was "unlike anything we've ever done before. It's real[ly] upbeat." For "Lonely, Lonely," Lazzara said it was the "first time that we just turned it up to ten and went with it".Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 5:10–15 With this song, Fazzi said the group wanted something "short, to the point and just punishing from start to finish".Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 5:26–31 The song's bridge had been suggested by Fazzi during his audition for the band.Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 6:39–47 Rubano said the track was "a freight train of rock & roll" and was inspired by Queens of the Stone Age. "Summer, Man" was one of the first songs written for New Again. It was composed during the Projekt Revolution tour, and consisted originally of a bridge guitar riff by Reyes.Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 8:27–38 Rubano said it was the band's take on a Beach Boys-esque song,Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 8:48–57 and has been compared to a mix of Weezer and Bush with its power pop chorus sections.
O'Connell came up with "Swing," a song that Rubano said "speaks to what the sound of the band is right now".Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 10:53–11:10 The power ballad "Where My Mouth Is" was the last song recorded for New Again. According to Lazzara, the lyrics were "the most blatant that I've ever been in a song".Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 12:26–35 The demo for the song was originally acoustic with an organ, mostly instrumental, and ran for 6–7 minutes.Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 12:36–45 Fazzi praised the track, as did Rubano. The song subsequently went through various arrangement changes.Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 12:45–55 The riff for "Cut Me Up Jenny" came from Lazzara: "I was so bored and so lazy, I picked up the guitar and then the [mimics intro guitar riff]. That's where it came from and we made a song out of it."Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 14:50–15:03 Lazzara described it as "a little choppy" with "a nice groove to it".{{cite web|url=http://teamrock.com/feature/2016-11-03/10-best-songs-taking-back-sunday-interview|title=The 10 best Taking Back Sunday songs by singer Adam Lazzara|work=TeamRock|publisher=Future Publishing Limited|author=Lazzara, Adam|date=November 3, 2016|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309072316/http://teamrock.com/feature/2016-11-03/10-best-songs-taking-back-sunday-interview|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} Fazzi said the track has a "crazy 80s vibe, it's a very different song for Taking Back Sunday",Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 14:26–29 while Rubano said it contained hints of Phoenix and Bloc Party. When "Catholic Knees" existed as a rough idea, Fazzi suggested that the group change the time signature to Septuple meter.Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 15:30–34, 15:47–53 Lazzara cited it as an example of Fazzi's influence on the band: "{{'}}Cause none of us would have thought to [change the time signature]."Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 15:53–58 Reyes compared the track to Queens of the Stone Age and Foo Fighters;Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 16:45–50 the bridge section recalled Glassjaw.
Rubano came up with the main riff for "Capital M-E," which Lazzara called "too easy" after hearing it for the first time, "like it needs something else".Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 17:31–42 Rubano was adamant, saying "work on it, we'll figure it out".Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 17:42–45 While Reyes compared it to Weezer,Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 18:04–05 Rubano compared it to early Taking Back Sunday, in the sense that "it's a very simple song and about the energy you put behind it".Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 17:46–55 Lyrically, it was inspired by a comment Mascherino made during an interview after leaving the band: "[Taking Back Sunday was] more about cooking food than making music."{{cite web|url=http://www.chartattack.com/news/2009/07/27/taking-back-sunday-beyond-the-drama/|title=Taking Back Sunday Beyond The Drama|work=Chart Attack|publisher=Channel Zero|date=July 27, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309064717/http://www.chartattack.com/news/2009/07/27/taking-back-sunday-beyond-the-drama/|archive-date=2017-03-09}} Lazzara said, "it would probably be the first and last time that I'll go in-depth about that subject".Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 18:20–27 "Carpathia" was named after the ship RMS Carpathia, which was the first ship to hear a distress call from the RMS Titanic.{{cite web|url=http://www.spin.com/2009/11/taking-back-sunday-all-american-rejects-open-us-tour/|title=Taking Back Sunday, All-American Rejects Open U.S. Tour|work=Spin|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|author=Callwood, Brett|date=November 5, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309064038/http://www.spin.com/2009/11/taking-back-sunday-all-american-rejects-open-us-tour/|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} With the lyrics, Lazzara said he tried to be "really obvious with it".Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 20:11–15 The track features a bass solo, which was originally suggested by Fazzi and Lazzara.Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 20:35–40 "Everything Must Go" details the split between Lazzara and DuPree. The title originally appeared as a lyric in an early draft of the song.Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 21:26–36 Lazzara called "Didn't See That Coming" "really slow and almost haunting". He said it was a prequel to "Cut Me Up Jenny."Taking Back Sunday 2009, event occurs at 15:07–16
Release and promotion
File:Taking Back Sunday @ Steel Blue Oval (1 3 2010) (4416914324).jpg, March 1, 2010]]
In November 2008, the band revealed the name of their next album: New Again.{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=11835|title=Taking Back Sunday Title New Album|work=Melodic|author=Spinelli, Tom|date=November 8, 2008|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309082414/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=11835|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} Later that month, the band performed a few shows with The (International) Noise Conspiracy in the US.{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_4873|title=The (International) Noise Conspiracy to support Taking Back Sunday on several dates|work=Alternative Press|date=October 9, 2008|access-date=July 26, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728213632/http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_4873|archive-date=July 28, 2017}} In December, the group went on a tour of the US with Envy on the Coast{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/30776/tours-taking-back-sunday-envy-on-the-coast|title=Taking Back Sunday / Envy on the Coast|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Paul, Aubin|date=October 8, 2008|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309080045/https://www.punknews.org/article/30776/tours-taking-back-sunday-envy-on-the-coast|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} dubbed Hurray Tour!. On every night of the tour, local acts were added to the lineup.{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_5238|title=Taking Back Sunday / Envy On the Coast "Excited to be Sharing the Stage"|work=Alternative Press|date=December 3, 2008|access-date=July 28, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728214447/http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_5238|archive-date=July 28, 2017}} In addition, fans could purchase holiday cards on the tour. The cards contained a code that, upon being entered on a website, would allow them to download "Carpathia".{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_5249|title=Taking Back Sunday release New Song Download|work=Alternative Press|date=December 4, 2008|access-date=July 28, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728215106/http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_5249|archive-date=July 28, 2017}} On December 21, "Carpathia" was made available for streaming{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_5439|title=Taking Back Sunday's "Carpathia" available for download|work=Alternative Press|date=December 21, 2008|access-date=July 30, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170730223654/http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_5439|archive-date=July 30, 2017}} on YouTube.{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=12164|title=Hear a New Taking Back Sunday Song Now|work=Melodic|author=Osborn, Dallas|date=December 22, 2008|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309082341/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=12164|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} In addition, it was mentioned that New Again was expected to be released in spring. On March 14, the album's artwork was revealed. In addition, fans could hear snippets of new tracks on the group's website.{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_6273|title=Taking Back Sunday preview new song, album art|work=Alternative Press|date=March 14, 2009|access-date=August 7, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807193742/http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_6273|archive-date=August 7, 2017}} Three days later, New Again was announced for release.{{cite web|url=http://www.spin.com/2009/03/taking-back-sunday-announce-new-album-tour/|title=Taking Back Sunday Announce New Album, Tour|work=Spin|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|author=Goodman, William|date=March 17, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309063032/http://www.spin.com/2009/03/taking-back-sunday-announce-new-album-tour/|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} On April 8, the band posted a clip of "Sink into Me" online.{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_6475|title=Taking Back Sunday post "Sink Into Me" clip|work=Alternative Press|date=April 8, 2009|access-date=August 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808155218/http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_6475|archive-date=August 8, 2017}} Following an appearance at Bamboozle Left in April,{{cite web|url=http://www.chartattack.com/news/2009/03/20/taking-back-sunday-are-new-again/|title=Taking Back Sunday Are New Again|work=Chart Attack|publisher=Channel Zero|date=March 20, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170801101414/http://www.chartattack.com/news/2009/03/20/taking-back-sunday-are-new-again/|archive-date=August 1, 2017}} the band went on a tour of Europe with Underoath, Emery and Innerpartysystem{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=12270|title=Taking Back Sunday, UnderOATH, Emery & Innerpartysystem To Tour Europe|work=Melodic|author=Osborn, Dallas|date=January 10, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309082438/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=12270|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} as part of the Give it a Name festival.{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_5606|title=Taking Back Sunday, Emery and others to play Give It A Name 2009|work=Alternative Press|date=January 9, 2009|access-date=July 31, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170731171218/http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_5606|archive-date=July 31, 2017}} On April 17, the album's track listing was revealed, and "New Again" was released as a free download.{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=13057|title=Taking Back Sunday releases tracklist and offers free download|work=Melodic|author=Spinelli, Tom|date=April 17, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309082450/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=13057|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} The band released a 7" vinyl single of "Carpathia," with a live version of "Catholic Knees" as the B-side, on April 18 as part of Record Store Day.{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/32877/taking-back-sunday-plan-7-inch-for-record-store-day|title=Taking Back Sunday plan 7-inch for Record Store Day|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Paul, Aubin|date=March 26, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312080902/https://www.punknews.org/article/32877/taking-back-sunday-plan-7-inch-for-record-store-day|archive-date=March 12, 2017}}
On April 19, "Sink into Me" was made available for streaming,{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/33175/media-taking-back-sunday-new-again-sink-into-me|title=Taking Back Sunday: "New Again," "Sink Into Me"|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Paul, Aubin|date=April 19, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312084404/https://www.punknews.org/article/33175/media-taking-back-sunday-new-again-sink-into-me|archive-date=March 12, 2017}} and released via the iTunes Store on April 24.{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=13120|title=Taking Back Sunday to release New Again on June 2nd|work=Melodic|author=Roth, Kaj|date=April 24, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309082349/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=13120|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} "Catholic Knees (26th St. Shakedown)" served as the single's B-side.{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/sink-into-me-single/id316651886|title=Sink Into Me - Single by Taking Back Sunday|work=iTunes|publisher=Apple Inc|access-date=March 9, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312044955/https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/sink-into-me-single/id316651886|archive-date=March 12, 2017}} The music video for "Sink into Me", which had been filmed in New York with director Travis Kopach in early April, premiered on May 13 on MTV.{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/33530/videos-taking-back-sunday-sink-into-me|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20221008113439/https://www.punknews.org/article/33530/videos-taking-back-sunday-sink-into-me|title=Taking Back Sunday: 'Sink Into Me'|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Paul, Aubin|date=May 13, 2009|archivedate=October 8, 2022|access-date=October 8, 2022}} It features the band covered in black goo, a reference to The X-Files{{'}} black oil, sinking into a stage.{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1611057/taking-back-sunday-get-sloppy-in-sink-into-me-video/|title=Taking Back Sunday Get Sloppy In 'Sink Into Me' Video|work=MTV|publisher=Viacom|author=Montgomery, James|date=May 11, 2009|access-date=March 7, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044333/http://www.mtv.com/news/1611057/taking-back-sunday-get-sloppy-in-sink-into-me-video/|archive-date=March 8, 2017}} The following day, Rubano revealed that "an entirely acoustic reinterpretation" of New Again was in the works. On May 19, "Everything Must Go" was made available for streaming on the band's Myspace profile.{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/33607/media-taking-back-sunday-everything-must-go|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20221008124341/https://www.punknews.org/article/33607/media-taking-back-sunday-everything-must-go|title=Taking Back Sunday: 'Everything Must Go'|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Paul, Aubin|date=May 19, 2009|archivedate=October 8, 2022|access-date=October 8, 2022}} Following an appearance at the Bamboozle Festival, the band toured the US in May and June with Anberlin and Envy on the Coast. With every two tickets purchased for the tour, fans received a digital download copy of New Again. New Again was made available for streaming via the band's Myspace account on May 28,{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/33727/taking-back-sunday-new-again|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20221008144552/https://www.punknews.org/article/33727/taking-back-sunday-new-again|title=Taking Back Sunday: 'New Again'|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Paul, Aubin|date=May 28, 2009|archivedate=October 8, 2022|access-date=October 8, 2022}} and released on June 2 through major label Warner Bros. Records. People who pre-ordered the limited version of the album received two extra songs: "Didn't See That Coming" and "Catholic Knees (26th St. Shakedown)."{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=13145|title=Taking Back Sunday Carfomercial- Pre Order The Limited Edition Package Car Kit Now|work=Melodic|author=Roth, Kaj|date=April 28, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309082429/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=13145|archive-date=March 9, 2017}}
A deluxe edition included a DVD with a making-of feature of the recording process, as well as a track-by-track commentary by the band.{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6CXmpOi62s |title=TBS Carformercial |publisher=YouTube |date=April 24, 2009 |access-date=March 3, 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312091911/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6CXmpOi62s |archive-date=March 12, 2016 }} The iTunes edition included "Long Time Comin'" and the music video for "Sink into Me" as bonus tracks.{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/new-again-bonus-track-version/id316974629|title=New Again (Bonus Track Version) by Taking Back Sunday|work=iTunes|publisher=Apple Inc|access-date=March 9, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312044917/https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/new-again-bonus-track-version/id316974629|archive-date=March 12, 2017}} In promoting the album, Warner Bros. Senior Vice-President of Marketing Rob Gordon said the promotional campaign would accomplish two objectives: "No. 1 is energizing the fan base. No. 2 is taking this band from the world of ... whatever you want to call it to an arena-rock band," such as the Foo Fighters. To help with the first point, the label worked with Myspace to hold listening sessions aboard the band's tour bus in various cities. The album's release was followed by a European tour in July.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/268656/taking-back-sunday-ready-to-road-test-new-again|title=Taking Back Sunday Ready To Road Test 'New Again'|magazine=Billboard|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|author=Graff, Gary|date=May 12, 2009|access-date=March 7, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308135853/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/268656/taking-back-sunday-ready-to-road-test-new-again|archive-date=March 8, 2017}} "New Again" was released as a single on July 24 with an acoustic version of "Sink into Me" as the B-side.{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/new-again-single/id323715319|title=iTunes - Music - New Again - Single by Taking Back Sunday|work=iTunes|publisher=Apple Inc|access-date=July 2, 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160308024824/https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/new-again-single/id323715319|archive-date=March 8, 2016}} In late July and early August, the band toured the UK with support from Twin Atlantic.{{cite web|url=http://www.kerrang.com/blog/2009/07/twin_atlantic_to_support_takin.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121019113917/http://www.kerrang.com/blog/2009/07/twin_atlantic_to_support_takin.html|title=Twin Atlantic to support Taking Back Sunday|work=Kerrang!|publisher=Bauer Media Group|author=Simon|date=July 22, 2009|archive-date=October 19, 2012|access-date=March 12, 2017}} In August and September, the band supported Blink-182 on their North American tour{{cite web|url=http://www.chartattack.com/news/2009/06/24/taking-back-sunday-cancel-toronto-show/|title=Taking Back Sunday Cancel Toronto Show|work=Chart Attack|publisher=Channel Zero|date=June 24, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309061210/http://www.chartattack.com/news/2009/06/24/taking-back-sunday-cancel-toronto-show/|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} and performed at Virgin Mobile FreeFest.{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/index.php/news/entry/archive_7394|title=Taking Back Sunday to play two more dates with Blink-182|work=Alternative Press|date=June 24, 2009|access-date=August 21, 2017}} "Where My Mouth Is" was released to radio on September 1.{{cite web|url=http://www.allaccess.com/mail/archive/eweekly/alternative/2009-8-25.html|title=AllAccess.com Alternative eWeekly|work=AllAccess|publisher=All Access Media Group|date=August 25, 2009|access-date=March 5, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170306040341/http://www.allaccess.com/mail/archive/eweekly/alternative/2009-8-25.html|archive-date=March 6, 2017}} In late October, the band went on a brief tour of the US.{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=14461|title=Taking Back Sunday Announce New Release, Live From Bamboozle '09|work=Melodic|author=Wippsson, Johan|date=October 1, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312031158/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=14461|archive-date=March 12, 2017}}
In November and December, the band co-headlined a US tour with The All-American Rejects, with support from Anberlin.{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=14248|title=All American Rejects, Taking Back Sunday & Anberlin Fall Tour Announced|work=Melodic|author=Osborn, Dallas|date=September 8, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309061431/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=14248|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} The Japanese edition of the album was released on December 9 through Warner Music Japan and included "Didn't See That Coming" as a bonus track.{{cite AV media notes|title=New Again |others=Taking Back Sunday |year=2009 |type=Sleeve |publisher=Warner Music Japan |id=WPCR-13467}} In February and March 2010, the band participated in the Soundwave festival in Australia.{{cite web|url=http://fasterlouder.junkee.com/soundwave-line-up-2010/804284|title=Soundwave line-up 2010|work=FasterLouder|publisher=Junkee Media|author=Smith, Sarah|date=August 13, 2009|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309065024/http://fasterlouder.junkee.com/soundwave-line-up-2010/804284|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} On this tour, the band performed sideshows with Enter Shikari.{{cite web|url=http://fasterlouder.junkee.com/taking-back-sunday-and-enter-shikari-sidewave/808216|title=Taking Back Sunday and Enter Shikari Sidewave|work=FasterLouder|publisher=Junkee Media|author=Smith, Sarah|date=January 8, 2010|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309070528/http://fasterlouder.junkee.com/taking-back-sunday-and-enter-shikari-sidewave/808216|archive-date=March 9, 2017}} After returning home, Rubano sent the rest of the band song ideas, which were ignored: "No responses to like half a dozen songs being sent out. Just, very weird." Following two weeks of no communication with the band, three members of the band and their manager held a conference call with Rubano. During the call, the band stated their intention of continuing without him. Likewise, Fazzi received a call saying that the group were letting him go.{{cite web|url=http://www.absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?t=1779382 |title=Fazzi Found Out When We Did |work=AbsolutePunk |publisher=SpinMedia |author=Ilvonen, Keagan |date=July 1, 2010 |access-date=March 11, 2017 }}{{dead link|date=August 2018|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} On March 29, statements by Fazzi and Rubano announcing their departure from the group were posted on the band's website.{{cite web|url=http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=15793|title=Taking back sunday reforms classic 2001 lineup + new album|work=Melodic|author=Spinelli, Tom|date=April 12, 2010|access-date=March 11, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312061523/http://www.melodic.net/?page=news&id=15793|archive-date=March 12, 2017}} Two days later, it was announced that former members guitarist John Nolan and bassist Shaun Cooper had re-joined the band.{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/37730/taking-back-sunday-reforms-tell-all-your-friends-era-lineup|title=Taking Back Sunday reforms 'Tell All Your Friends'-era lineup|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Shultz, Brian|date=March 31, 2010|access-date=March 9, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312091824/https://www.punknews.org/article/37730/taking-back-sunday-reforms-tell-all-your-friends-era-lineup|archive-date=March 12, 2017}}
{{clear}}
Reception
{{Music ratings
| rev1 = AllMusic
| rev1Score = {{rating|3.5|5}}{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/new-again-mw0000817352|title=New Again - Taking Back Sunday|publisher=AllMusic|author= Erlewine, Stephen Thomas|access-date=March 10, 2017}}
| rev2 = Alternative Press
| rev4 = Entertainment Weekly
| rev5 = Melodic
| rev7 = PopMatters
| rev8 = Rolling Stone
| rev9 = Spin
| rev10 = Sputnikmusic
| rev10Score = {{rating|5|5}}{{cite web|url=https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/30714/Taking-Back-Sunday-New-Again/|title=Review: Taking Back Sunday - New Again|publisher=Sputnikmusic|author=Freeman, Channing |access-date=September 15, 2009|date=May 28, 2009}}
}}
=Critical response=
New Again received generally favorable reviews from critics, according to review aggregation website Metacritic.{{cite web |url=http://www.metacritic.com/music/new-again/taking-back-sunday/critic-reviews |title=Critic Reviews for New Again |publisher=CBS interactive |work=Metacritic |access-date=March 3, 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140317102435/http://www.metacritic.com/music/new-again/taking-back-sunday/critic-reviews |archive-date=March 17, 2014 }} AllMusic reviewer Stephen Thomas Erlewine wrote that, like their peers, Taking Back Sunday "gets increasingly poppy as their career winds on". He mentioned that their sound was "brighter and bigger in every regard". Writing for Alternative Press, Scott Heisel praised the record highly, stating that it "leaps forward as the best album of Taking Back Sunday's career to date". He also mentioned it featured "a darker, more menacing vibe". Jason Lipshutz of Billboard said the group "branch[ed] out from its emo roots," sounding "focused" delving into "complex melodies and thematic ideas".{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/bbcom/reviews-album/new-again-1003985912.story|title=New Again|magazine=Billboard|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|author=Lipshutz, Jason |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090626061005/http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/reviews-album/new-again-1003985912.story|archive-date=June 26, 2009|access-date=March 10, 2017|url-status=dead}} Lipshutz said that Lazzara's growth as a songwriter made the album "a brisk, enjoyable outing".
In a review for Entertainment Weekly, author Andy Greenwald said the group were able to "reinvent themselves as mainstreamo shredders" with New Again. Melodic reviewer Tom Spinelli noted that the "more straight forward ... sound" the group were going for could push them "into a more mainstream audience". He mentioned that while a lot of the songs have "a more radio sound on them," it's not done in a "cheesy way". Jon Pareles of The New York Times mentioned Kahne's production as giving the band "a little more gloss".{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/01/arts/music/01choi.html?_r=0|title=New Music From Taking Back Sunday, Rancid, Freddie Hubbard and Sam Yahel|work=The New York Times|author=Pareles, Jon|date=May 31, 2009|access-date=March 10, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170306135526/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/01/arts/music/01choi.html?_r=0|archive-date=March 6, 2017}} Pareles noted several homages to U2: the guitar work on "New Again" and "Catholic Knees," the keyboard intro to "Where My Mouth Is," as well as Lazzara's "vocal delivery, full of Bono's breathy gulps and open-throated crescendos".
PopMatters{{'}} Matthew Niner praised Lazzara's voice, calling him "an incredibly versatile vocalist". Niner wrote that the group created "another solid album that cements their reputation as one of the most genuinely affecting and consistent bands in the current scene". Christian Hoard of Rolling Stone wrote that while an "arena-ready polish" features throughout the album, it doesn't help the "forced melodrama," in songs such as "Lonely, Lonely". Spin reviewer David Bevan wrote that album "focuses on roaring arenas as much as on two-timing lovers". He said Lazzara's vocals sounded "more sore- than full-throated, but they still freeze blood for short stretches". Channing Freeman of Sputnikmusic wrote that New Again "places less emphasis on catchy parts and [is] more focused on entire songs".
=Commercial performance and legacy=
New Again debuted at number seven on the Billboard 200, selling 48,000 copies in its first week in the United States.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/268417/dave-matthews-big-debuts-at-no-1-on-billboard-200|title=Dave Matthews' 'Big' Debuts At No. 1 On Billboard 200|magazine=Billboard|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|author=Caulfield, Keith|date=June 10, 2009|access-date=March 7, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606082859/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/268417/dave-matthews-big-debuts-at-no-1-on-billboard-200|archive-date=June 6, 2013}} The album reached number two on the Alternative Albums chart, number five on both the Digital Albums and Top Rock Albums charts and number six on the Tastemaker Albums chart. The album also charted at number 16 on the Canadian Albums Chart, number 31 on the Australian Albums Chart and number 46 on the UK Albums Chart. "Sink into Me" peaked at number 10 on the Alternative Songs chart and{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/277549/taking-back-sunday/chart?f=377|title=Taking Back Sunday - Chart history (Alternative Songs)|magazine=Billboard|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|access-date=March 10, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161009002944/http://www.billboard.com/artist/277549/taking-back-sunday/chart?f=377|archive-date=October 9, 2016}} number 32 on the Hot Rock Songs chart.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/277549/taking-back-sunday/chart?f=902|title=Taking Back Sunday - Chart history (Hot Rock Songs)|magazine=Billboard|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|access-date=March 10, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312083230/http://www.billboard.com/artist/277549/taking-back-sunday/chart?f=902|archive-date=March 12, 2017}}
Alternative Press named it album of the year. Fuse.tv's Jason Lipshutz called New Again his least-favorite Taking Back Sunday album. Lipshutz said that there were "moments worth revisiting" on the album, but it was "clearly a transitional outing," attempting to build on the success of Louder Now.{{cite web|url=http://www.fuse.tv/2016/09/taking-back-sunday-albums-ranked#7|title=Taking Back Sunday's Albums, Ranked: Where Does 'Tidal Wave' Crash In?|work=Fuse.tv|publisher=Fuse Networks, LLC|author=Lipshutz, Jason|date=September 16, 2016|access-date=March 9, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161114011939/http://www.fuse.tv/2016/09/taking-back-sunday-albums-ranked#7|archive-date=November 14, 2016}} In a retrospective piece, Scott Heisel of Alternative Press said Fazzi helped bring "jazz, off-kilter riffs" and "lush textures" to the band, while mentioning the rest of the group provided the "most aggressive songs to date in 'Lonely, Lonely' and 'Swing'."{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/features/entry/and_the_best_taking_back_sunday_album_of_all_time_is|title=And the best Taking Back Sunday album of all time is…|work=Alternative Press|author=Heisel, Scott|date=June 27, 2014|access-date=March 9, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821134930/http://www.altpress.com/features/entry/and_the_best_taking_back_sunday_album_of_all_time_is|archive-date=August 21, 2016}}
In 2010, Lazzara answered questions on his Formspring account, commenting that New Again "was a gigantic step backwards" and that he was "not fully satisfied with what we put out".{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/38081/adam-lazzara-new-again-was-a-gigantic-step-backwards-for-us|title=Adam Lazzara: "'New Again' was a gigantic step backwards for us"|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Paul, Aubin|date=April 27, 2010|access-date=March 8, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312075857/https://www.punknews.org/article/38081/adam-lazzara-new-again-was-a-gigantic-step-backwards-for-us|archive-date=March 12, 2017}} In 2012, Reyes said of New Again: "I didn't like how we had to constantly change producers and the songwriting didn't turn out originally as it was, it just kind of bummed us out a bit."{{cite web|url=http://www.theaureview.com/interviews/eddie-reyes-of-taking-back-sunday-new-york|title=The AU interview: Eddie Reyes of Taking Back Sunday (New York)|work=The AU Review|publisher=Heath Media|author=Strange, Jason|date=January 31, 2010|access-date=March 16, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170317143845/http://www.theaureview.com/interviews/eddie-reyes-of-taking-back-sunday-new-york|archive-date=March 17, 2017}} Discussing New Again in 2016, Rubano called the period "the golden time where I was like 'oh, we're doing music, that we all really like, that we can't wait to get out' and things were going pretty good for a little while". However, when the album was released, the "critics seemed to like it, but it didn't really hit [with the public], and then when we started the touring cycle for it there was a very decisive mood turn in a band that already was insanely moody all the time".
The album was released on vinyl in April 2017.{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/news/entry/taking_back_sunday_reissuing_colored_vinyl|title=Taking Back Sunday reissuing colored vinyl|work=Alternative Press|author=Smith, Lindy|date=February 25, 2017|access-date=March 5, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170306211157/http://www.altpress.com/news/entry/taking_back_sunday_reissuing_colored_vinyl|archive-date=March 6, 2017}}
Track listing
{{Track listing
|title1 = New Again
|length1 = 3:33
|title2 = Sink into Me
|length2 = 3:03
|title3 = Lonely, Lonely
|length3 = 2:49
|title4 = Summer, Man
|length4 = 3:51
|title5 = Swing
|length5 = 3:26
|title6 = Where My Mouth Is
|length6 = 3:52
|title7 = Cut Me Up Jenny
|length7 = 3:52
|title8 = Catholic Knees
|length8 = 2:48
|title9 = Capital M-E
|length9 = 2:49
|title10 = Carpathia
|length10 = 3:09
|title11 = Everything Must Go
|length11 = 4:44
}}
Bonus tracks
{{track listing
| all_writing =
| headline = iTunes pre-order bonus track
| title12 = Carpathia
| length12 = 3:46
| note12 = Dance Dicaprio version
}}
{{track listing
| all_writing =
| headline = iTunes bonus track version
| title12 = Long Time Comin'
| length12 = 2:38
| title13 = Sink into Me
| note13 = music video
| length13 = 3:15
}}
{{track listing
| all_writing =
| headline = Japanese bonus track
| title12 = Didn't See That Coming
| length12 = 3:07
}}
{{track listing
| all_writing =
| headline = Limited edition pre-order bonus tracks
| title12 = Didn't See That Coming
| length12 = 3:07
| title13 = Catholic Knees (26th St. Shakedown)
| length13 = 3:09
}}
{{track listing
| all_writing =
| headline = Limited edition DVD
| title1 = Behind the Scenes Part 1
| length1 = 10:12
| title2 = Behind the Scenes Part 2
| length2 = 12:57
| title3 = Track by Track
| length3 = 24:43
}}
Personnel
Personnel per sleeve.{{cite AV media notes|title=New Again |others=Taking Back Sunday |year=2009 |type=Sleeve |publisher=Warner Bros. |id=9362-49799-6}}
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
Taking Back Sunday
- Matthew Fazzi – lead guitar, keyboards, backing vocals
- Adam Lazzara – lead vocals
- Mark O'Connell – drums, percussion
- Eddie Reyes – rhythm guitar
- Matthew Rubano – bass guitar, backing vocals
{{col-2}}
Production
- David Kahne – producer, overdubs engineering
- Evil Joe Barresi – tracking engineering
- Jamie Siegel – additional production, engineering
- Matt Squire – additional production, engineering, producer
- Bill Appleberry – engineering
- Tom Lord-Alge – mixing
- Justin Gerrish – assistant
- Anthony Lenoci – assistant
- Casey Lewis – assistant
- Jared Nugent – assistant
- Femio Hernandez – assistant
- Ted Jensen – mastering
- Brad Filip – art design
- Kurt Iswarienko – band photo
{{col-end}}
Chart positions
References
=Citations=
{{Reflist|30em}}
=Sources=
{{refbegin}}
- {{cite AV media|people=Taking Back Sunday|date=2009|title=Track by Track|medium=DVD-V|language=en|publisher=Warner Bros. |id=9362-49799-6}}
{{refend}}
{{Taking Back Sunday}}
{{Authority control}}
Category:Taking Back Sunday albums
Category:Albums produced by David Kahne