Review Summary: The Make Yourself At Home EP is a perfect companion to Say It Like You Mean
The Starting Line seems to have gotten really good at writing pop punk music with an emo flair, similar to New Found Glory. We got a glimpse at what TSL can do with just acoustic guitars on their previous album, Say It Like You Mean It, with the song The Drama Summer. It proved to be a great acoustic track, which initially compelled me to check their all acoustic EP, Make Yourself At Home. Kenny's voice really shines thru and preoves its full potential. Also the guitar work is nicely done and fits perfect for acoustic songs.
Track by Track Review:
"Make Yourself At Home" - Great way to open the EP. Starts with an electronic drum beat, which carries throughout the song. Song is basically about being on the road and missing your home. 4/5
"Selective" - More up tempo and could easily be a full-band TSL song. Great lyrics and sung beautifully. However it is a weaker track on the EP since it can get a little boring sometimes. 3/5
"Playing Favorites" - Nice lead picking at the beginning. The chorus is very catchy and has a slightly choppy beat. Lyrics are standard TSL lyrics about a girl but is in no way cliche' 4/5
"The Night Life" - Opens with techno type noises. Transparent sounding guitars soon cut in and lead into a great song. Subject of the song is very similar to the first track of the EP. 4.5/5
"The Best of Me" - I had always thought that this song would be great when done acoustic, and I was right. Very catchy and executed perfectly using acoustic guitars. Same tempo as original song which is a plus. 5/5
"Lasting Impressions" - Very honest lyrics and slightly slower intro jumps into a fast paced verse. Great finger-picking leads and echoing chorus effects make this one very good. Eventually became a full-band TSL song on the next album, Based on a true Story.
4/5
I personally think that The Make Yourself At Home EP is a perfect companion to Say It Like You Mean It, so if you enjoyed that one, or anything by TSL, pick this EP up soon. It's only like $6 and it is well worth it.
