Twenty-five years after its initial release, a cornerstone of emo culture is making headlines again. Returning with a remastered version, this album that laid the foundation for an entire movement is packed with previously unreleased tracks. A fresh opportunity arises to rediscover the album that defined emo and pop punk in the late ’90s. The digital version is set to drop tomorrow, August 23rd, with the physical release following on September 20th. Just before its release, I’m bringing you the review of The Get Up Kids’ Something to Write Home About (25th Anniversary Deluxe Edition).
Something to Write Home About: A Foundational Album
Let’s go back to 1999. The punk movement was undergoing a transition and redefinition. This period gave rise to a multitude of alternative sub-genres. Many bands from that era became iconic, as did some albums. Some enjoyed a flourishing legacy, while others faded into obscurity. In the midst of this vibrant alternative scene, one album stood out. Even though it didn’t achieve the immediate success of others, its influence was undeniable during the emergence of the new emo movement.
I’m talking about Something to Write Home About, the second studio album by American band The Get Up Kids, released on September 21, 1999, on Vagrant Records. Although initially underrated, this album became one of the most influential in the emo and pop punk scenes of the late ’90s and early 2000s. While it didn’t achieve massive commercial success, it still influenced many major artists. Bands like Fall Out Boy, Blink-182, and Paramore have all paid homage to it. Critics also recognized the band’s talent, often citing this album in top emo album lists. Tracks like “Holiday” and “Ten Minutes” deliver songs filled with love, rage, and introspection.
The Get Up Kids – Something to Write Home About (25th Anniversary Deluxe Edition)
So, what does this remastered version of this emo monument offer? For this review, we had access to the streaming version of the album. Visually, the cover presented is the same as the original album. It should be available in both CD and vinyl formats. In terms of sound, the remaster truly enhances the listening experience compared to the 1999 version. The revised balance allows for better appreciation of the vocals and instruments in each track.
This 25th Anniversary Deluxe Edition also offers a wealth of new material that fans will appreciate. Almost all the tracks from the original album are available in their demo or four-track demo versions. “Action & Action” is the only track missing in this format, but we’ll forgive the producers for that. Additionally, the demo version of a song from their next album, “One Year Later,” is included, offering the band a chance to reflect on the journey that Something to Write Home About has represented. These demo tracks provide a deeper dive into the band’s creative world.
For me, the standout track on this album is “The Company Dime.” While I particularly enjoy the 1999 album version, discovering the four-track demo version has made me love it even more. It feels like you’re right there in the room with the band members as they first came together to create a clean, emotionally charged, and complete version of the track. Switching between versions is an emo musical delight!
New Audio and Visual Exclusives
This 25th-anniversary edition has transported me back to my teenage years, with a bittersweet pleasure accompanied by lyrics that still resonate today with all their emotions. My musical journey with The Get Up Kids and their iconic album has been a thoroughly enjoyable experience. As you can tell, I can’t recommend enough that you embark on this journey too!
Additionally, to celebrate the release of this special 25th-anniversary edition, the band is releasing music videos for their hits “Holiday” and “Ten Minutes.” These videos are a chance to travel back in time, featuring footage of the band from that era, including concert scenes, travel clips, and other adventures from their journey. Check them out below:
I hope this review of the remastered Something to Write Home About by The Get Up Kids has inspired you to relive that wild late-’90s era of alternative music.
The band has embarked on a tour to celebrate the 25th anniversary of this album. They will be performing the entire album at these shows.
