Album Review: Blink-182 - California

Blink-182 fans everywhere have asked many questions in the lead-up to the seminal pop punk band's first album in five years, but none more prominent than this: Can they go on without founding member and co-frontman Tom DeLonge? Whether you miss DeLonge or loathe him, California answers that question with an emphatic 'yes'.

While the album is undoubtedly led by Mark Hoppus, new recruit Matt Skiba does more than just serve as a fill-in in DeLonge's absence. Don't be mistaken — this is a Blink record through and through, but Skiba's perfectly placed harmonies and back-ups are not only a welcome addition to the music, but help swerve the band towards slightly new territory. Opening track Cynical is a perfect taste of the album — fast, catchy, loud. California could easily fit in Blink's catalogue between Take Off Your Pants & Jacket and their self-titled effort. Tracks such as She's Out Of Her Mind and The Only Thing That Matters recall Enema and Dude Ranch days, while heavier efforts such as No Future and San Diego prove that they can be taken seriously and still make dick jokes.

Hoppus and Travis Barker sound like they've had a weight lifted off their shoulders following years of just simply talking about a new album. Hoppus' vocals have never sounded stronger and Barker's work on songs such as Los Angeles and California show why he's one of the most sought after drummers in the world. Blink-182 are well and truly back.