Artist: Secondhand Serenade
Album: Awake
Label: Glassnote
Purchase: Smart Punk
Release Date: February 6, 2007

Overall: 8.3
Music: 8.4
Lyrics: 8.2
Production: 8.5

Nowadays, a guy and a guitar equal a Dashboard Confessional rip-off. It’s never been more blatant than Secondhand Serenade. However, it’s never been done this well.

Fans of Chris Carrabba longing for new acoustic tracks to tug on their heartstrings absolutely need this album. “Awake” is a re-release, celebrating John Vesely’s joining of the East/West family.

John’s voice is able to hover barely above a whisper and then take off soaring into a melting pot of harmonies. It’s much more accessible than D/C.

The songs themselves are nothing original, but are crafted so well that you don’t care. You will sing along all the same.

Sprinkle several songs from “Awake” on a mixtape or purchase the album as a Valentine’s Day present for your sweetie. You’re sure to get the “sap of the year” award, but a smile is guaranteed on their face.

Track Listing:
1. Half Alive
2. Broken
3. Vulnerable
4. Your Call
5. Maybe
6. It’s Not Over
7. I Hate This Song
8. Awake
9. Take Me With You
10. Let It Roll
11. The Last Song Ever
12. End