Insomniatic

 Review

Common Sense Media says

G-rated pop musings on the state of the heart.
greenON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
yellowPAUSE: Know your child; some content
may not be right for some kids.
redOFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
not for kidsNOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age.

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Quality
 
Sometimes media can be age appropriate but a real waste of time. Our star rating assesses the media's overall quality.

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Parents say

Kids say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that sisters Aly and AJ Michalka deliver G-rated musings on the state of the heart, from a teenager's point of view. All of the songs on the album are about relationships -- the good stuff, the bad stuff, and negotiating both smooth and rough terrain.

  • A gentle message of taking care of yourself and knowing your boundaries in relationships.
  • Not applicable.
  • Not applicable.

What's the story?

In 13 polished performances, teen-pop-star sister act Aly and AJ prove that they've matured both as singers and songwriters. The lyrics are noticeably better written than their first album, and are aimed directly at the heart of any teenager negotiating the ups and downs of romance. There are the highs of flirtation, the confusion that comes with being caught in the undertow of sexual attraction while taking care of yourself and setting limits ("With you there is no filter/to sugarcoat what you said/even though I like your honesty/it won't lead me to your bed" on "Blush"), and the sadness and disappointment of breaking up -- all described in well-constructed songs containing G-rated imagery.


Is it any good?

 

A gentle undertone of self-esteem and standing up for yourself in relationships is refreshing, even on the more lovesick songs. Instrumentals, though overly synthesized for some tastes, are understated enough to let the vocals shine; the girls' singing is confident and lovely. Add sparkling, wholesome good looks and a whole lot of flowing hair, and you've got a surefire pop sensation.


Explore, discuss, enjoy

Families can talk about strategies for handling romantic disappointments. Sometimes relationships don't work out despite our best efforts, and maybe it's not really anyone's fault. How do you learn skills for communicating your feelings, then -- if necessary -- pick yourself up and move on? Families can also discuss how young artists (especially pop stars) create an empire for themselves. Is it enough to just put out an album? Why do young artists feel the need to create an entire image for themselves?


This review of Insomniatic was written by
Teen, 15 years old
April 9, 2008
 
its good but...
Parents should know there is a word used that has not been described on here. In the song 'Like It or Leave It' in the chorus, its constantly repeated throughout the song. Other than that its a good album!

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Teen, 13 years old
January 24, 2010
 
Great tunes!
I LOVE potential breakup song! it has the best tune ever! one of my favorite songs!
What other families should know:

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Kid, 11 years old
April 9, 2008
 
Good.
I love this album.The only thing I didn't like is that Aly and AJ are losing there originality.But, THEY ROCK!!!

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Kid, 11 years old
July 24, 2009
 
cant wait for something to finalllly comeee...
i love these girls...im kind of upset that since they really havent done anything since Insomniatic, people are really forgetting who they are. but i like them...awesome vocals (im sure theyre kind of over produced but...) they are very good role models and sweet girls. im hoping that when theyre next one FINALLY comes out, it will be even more of a mix with some other people and song topics, etc.
What other families should know:

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Kid, 12 years old
April 9, 2008
 
My favorite CD by my favorite artists!
I love alot of songs on this CD. The new upbeat tempos are a bit different from what they usually do, but it's just as fun, if not better! My favorite tracks are Potential Breakup Song, Like or Leave It, If I could have you back, Insomniatic, Like Whoa, Bullseye, & Silence. They're GREAT.

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Kid, 12 years old
April 9, 2008
 
aww............
cute little buoppies!!!!

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Teen, 14 years old
April 9, 2008
 

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Kid, 9 years old
December 29, 2009
 
I LOVE Aly and AJ sooo much. They haven't done anything since Insomniatic and that's upsetting. Well, AJ hasn't done anthing. Aly was in Bandslam.
What other families should know:

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Kid, 12 years old
April 9, 2008
 
A fun and head-rockin' thing for kids to listen to.
As the years go by, it gets harder and harder for me to find music that passes my parents' approval. Aly and Aj have given me fun music with catchy tunes that I am allowed to listen to and that i don't disapprove of.

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Teen, 13 years old
December 31, 2008
 
Bad
Sucky, lame CD.

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This review of Insomniatic was written by
Artist:Aly and AJ
Release date:July 10, 2007
Label:Hollywood Records
Genre:Pop
Parental advisory:No

This review of Insomniatic was written by
 

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