Sum 41 - 'Underclass Hero' (Mercury) Released 23/07/07

Brat pack Sum 41 return - fronted by Mr Avril Lavigne (aka Derek Whibley) with 'Underclass Hero' being their latest offering.

It has to be said with bands such as Good Charlotte and Fall Out Boy storming the charts these days we barley even noticed Sum 41 were ever gone.

This appears to be the milestone album for the Canadian four piece turned now trio with the departure of guitarist Dave Baksh.
 
With four platinum albums and various world wide sell out tours under their belts the band now need to overcome doubts that their sell by date is nigh.

Derek not willing to conform to emo hype, chose to do what Sum 41 does best return to their punk-pop roots - “I would only have done this record if everyone was into it” said Whibley.

They certainly make a bold, angst statement with 'Underclass Hero' stepping out of Avril's spotlight making a new name for themselves.
 
'Count you blessings' is a stomping tune crammed with teen angst, rivalling such previous antems as 'Fat Lip'and 'In Too Deep' which we all know and love.

This is by far the most personal album by the boys to date, dealing with issues such as estranged parents, departure of band members, and political undertones, with 'March of the Dogs' clearly poking fun at Bush's poor leadership. 

Blast at full max when in your room, who cares about the neighbours!