Review: All Time Low – MTV Unplugged

Artist: All Time Low
Album: MTV Unplugged
Genre: [Acoustic] Pop Punk
Label: Hopeless

All Time Low took their fame to new heights in 2009 with the release of their album Nothing Personal, major touring, and, capping it all off, an appearance on the intimate MTV Unplugged. Now, to celebrate a successful year and kick off what looks to be promising 2010 by releasing the Unplugged performance as a CD/DVD package.

Right from the get go, I have an issue with the set list for this album. I understand the idea of “sticking to what you know,” but this is Unplugged, the one stage for visual artistic experimentation that the majority of your fans will set at any given time. This is the chance to break out those obscure b-sides, or a cover of some unsung musical heroes most have forgotten. Instead of pursuing this route, ATL stick to the fan favorites and singles to lead the way and they [to no surprise] translate quite well.

The performance itself is solid, but I would have liked to see a bit more experimentation on ATL’s end. Unplugged used to be a place to see a new side of your favorite artists, not just..well, an acoustic show. It was the look into a band’s inner workings, behind the lights and buzz, but that’s not entirely what we find here. Aside from great drum/percussion accompaniment, a charming appearance from Kate Voegele on “Remembering Sunday,” and some light band banter, it’s completely by the books. I’m not saying it’s a bad performance, it simply doesn’t grab the listener.

On the visual end of things, the performance is shot gloriously and sounds even better. Also, addition of outtakes and an interview give for some additional entertainment the first or second time through.

In the long run, this is a package for the fans. All Time Low, though completely entertaining in most live settings, keep it a little too tame on this release. An appearance on MTV Unplugged used to be the way to expand your audience while keeping your built-in fans pleased, but this release seems more to simply satisfy those already interested and put some extra money on the table for the band and label. If you’re looking for some acoustic rendition gem or mind-blowing improvisational break, don’t look here. If you want to hear the same songs All Time Low performed every day on Warped Tour, but acoustically, pick this up.

Score: 5.5/10

James Shotwell
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