Common Sense Note
Four-letter words and a few drug and alcohol references make contextual sense in this long-awaited punk rock opera. Your mileage will vary, but there's nothing to worry about for most literate, sophisticated older teenagers.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Kathi Kamen Goldmark
It's been four years since the last Green Day album, and the long-awaited AMERICAN IDIOT turns out to be an elaborate punk rock concept album, blazing through new musical territory. The world's biggest, most successful punk band takes some real musical risks that mostly work.
Musically, the songs reflect a variety of rock influences, from the Beatles to Pink Floyd to the Foo Fighters. Power ballads, Indian strings, and even a bit of pop sentiment combine with the band's classic punk sensibilities to deliver a complex and interesting album with a clear narrative flow. The writing is vivid and compelling, if not always squeaky-clean. Most literate, smart teenagers have heard far worse and will have no problem with the lyrics. The musicianship is both powerful and poignant; the singing is terrific. Many kids will relate to the frenetic pathos of "Tales of Another Broken Home" and "I Don't Care."
AMERICAN IDIOT is a compelling, interesting album containing some disturbing, but articulate, images. It's worth the trouble, and taking the time to talk through the hard stuff, for most mature teenagers.
Rate It!
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Sexual ContentNothing explicit. |
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ViolenceA few disturbing images, one sad song about a suicide. |
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LanguageSome four-letter words, used in literary context. |
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Social BehaviorA couple of Jesus references might be disturbing to some. |
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CommercialismCD contains an insert for other products and cell phone accessories. |
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Drug/Alcohol/TobaccoA few references to drugs, drinking, and smoking. |
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