Blue October

Released on March 24, Approaching Normal is Blue October's 5th studio album and possibly their best. Justin Furstenfeld as usual provides lyrics that are both deep and emotional, that seems to connect with our own inner-problems and depressions.

Approaching Normal is a means that Furstenfeld uses to express his own feelings on topics like relationships, adultery, depression and death. I enjoyed how well-paced the album was, with it never getting too overly depressing, which was my primary issue with some of their previous work.

"Dirt Room," the first single from the album, is a great song that can also be used as a good representation as to how much progression the band has made. There is more variety in this album than in previous ones which can be attributed to the even-feel of the album.

I'd say that some of the older Blue October fans may feel like the band has sold out, but I personally think that this is the best they have sounded. I liked some of their older music, but as I've said before at times it almost got too depressing. There are definately more upbeat and optimistic songs on this album than any of their others, but the primary theme and story is still a dark one. This is one that deserves multiple listens.

Favorite Songs: Dirt Room, Been Down, Jump Rope, The End.

Listen to it Here.