Key Tracks: "True Romance," "Everyone Will Die," "Bad Idea"

When frontman Justin Pierre and lead guitarist Josh Cain got together after high school graduation in 1999, they had no idea what Motion City Soundtrack would become. Starting off with a short self-release, the duo toured throughout Pennsylvania where they met Virginia natives Tony Thaxton and Matthew Taylor. The four musicians joined forces and were later joined by Jesse Johnson on keyboard.

Of Motion City Soundtrack’s five records, its most recent, Go, is the best-written yet. The lyrics are profound and the band experiments not only with synthesizers, but also with a number of string instruments.

Go opens up with “Circuits and Wires.” This track represents a very upbeat introduction to the album, with slick lyrics to match the tempo.

In fact, the majority of the album seems to follow this quick pace. The only track that really slows things is “Everyone Will Die.” The string medley that carries throughout the track is beautiful and the somber lyrics are thought-provoking. “If everyone will die / And everyone will lose / Then who are you gonna love in the meantime before it catches you,” sings Pierre.

The album's biggest downfall is the tracks' tendency to blend together. Each song is well crafted, but besides “Everyone Will Die” there are not many standout tracks. Even though the band’s sound has matured since its 2010 album My Dinosaur Life, Motion City Soundtrack is playing it safe with Go.

The record does have some catchy songs that are likely to become singles. “True Romance” is a typical love song with a sweet melody featuring Pierre’s falsetto. “Bad Idea” sounds like something you may hear incessantly on the radio during the summer.

Although the group hasn't really branched out with Go, Motion City Soundtrack still has a great sound and creates likable pop songs. Hopefully Pierre and company will take a step in a new direction and take more risks with their music in the next few years.