A conversation with Shane at work got me to check this album out. We were discussing the '90's punk revival and got on the subject of the movements worst consequences: heavily capitalized pop-punk. Such bands as Green Day, Lit, and of course Blink 182 quickly came to mind. The manufactured presentation of this type of music made them perfect for college movie themes and feel good pop rock. Shane, however, professed that some of these bands had started out as legitimate punk bands. So i thought I'd delve in and do some research.
Cheshire Cat is Blink 182's first 'in studio' album on Cargo Music records. It was released on February 14, 1994... long before such agitating pop hits as 'All the Small Things.' While a good deal of this album can be found on their first self recorded album Buddha, Blink 182 (called simply Blink when this album was recorded) expanded on their sound and energy on Cheshire Cat. The album begins with a great track in 'Carousel.' The song has alot on energy and is just a well written song. From there the album muddles through a couple of OK tracks before hitting 'Peggy Sue' which shows Blink's concern with subject matter greater then adolescent love. This song addresses personal deviation and following your heart. I have a soft spot for these types of songs. Anyone who is in support of personal exploration and breaking away from the usual game of respect and subordination is doing something positive in my book. From here the album tends to pick up and stay strong. Overall I think the album is good. I really connect with some of the tracks. Especially 'T.V.' While i generally like Tom's songs more, Mark comes out with a great track criticizing television obsession. They definitely got it right with this song.
The album is raw and generally undoctored unlike later releases. This makes the album seem much more sincere. The album has a feel good positive vibe that highlights the band's pop tendencies. However I'd say this album is much too raw and traditionally punk to be considered a pop album.
In general i was pleasantly surprised to really enjoy this album. I wish more of their stuff was more along the attitudes expressed in this album.
Highlight: Carousel, Sometimes, T.V., Toast an Bananas, Romeo and Rebecca, Does My Breath Smell?, Peggy Sue
Low Points: M+M's, Ben Wah Balls, Depends, Cacophony
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