Max Bemis And The Painful Splits Review

Story by Jacob Fricke 

| Published Nov 9, 2010

Though he would deny it, Max Bemis is probably the most important figure in the pop-punk scene today. The frontman and stalwart member of Say Anything, he is among the only figures who actually believes what he is singing. His mental anguish, bipolar disorder, and Jewish guilt have long defined his confessional lyrics.

His “solo” debut may come as a bit of a surprise to longtime fans. Peppy guitars and intense percussion of Say Anything are replaced with a single acoustic guitar. Songs are primarily based on single repetitive chords.

The music, however, is not the focus. Bemis’ voice, long a focal point for both praise and criticism, it at it’s finest here. Though he has never had particularly large range, Bemis is able to capture a massive intensity and passion. Occasional backing vocals are provided by his wife Sherri DuPree of Eisley harmonize well and never distract from the most important part of the album: the lyrics.

Confessional, revealing, and occasionally juvenile, Bemis truly bares his soul. The opening track begins with the lament “I want to wake up in the evening, shred my lips and bathe in chlorine.... I don’t want to be with you.” A similar sentiment pervades much of the album. Though at points seeming simple, when combined with Bemis’ unmatched intensity the lyrics come across as an insight into his soul.

“Indie” purists will not like this album. Even fans of Say Anything’s brand of fast paced pop may scoff. However, those listeners willing to look deeper into the tortured mind of an enigmatic frontman will adore the album.