Brand New - Deja Entendu (2LP)

"Deja Entendu" by Brand New, released on June 17, 2003, is an album that has carved its niche deeply into the emo and alternative rock scenes. Its title, French for "already heard," is a playful nod to the band's desire to diverge from the common sounds of their debut album, "Your Favorite Weapon." This sophomore effort marked a significant evolution in their sound and lyrical sophistication, setting them apart from their contemporaries and cementing their place in the music world.

The album opens with "Tautou," a brief yet atmospheric track that immediately sets a mood distinct from their previous work. It's a perfect segue into "Sic Transit Gloria... Glory Fades," one of the album's standout tracks. This song showcases the band's ability to blend catchy hooks with complex, introspective lyrics. The bass-driven intro and the narrative exploring the nuances of young, problematic love are both haunting and engaging.

Another highlight is "The Quiet Things That No One Ever Knows," which became one of the band's most recognized tracks. Its energetic guitar lines and memorable chorus helped it gain significant airplay and a spot on many fans' favorite playlists. The song's ability to balance emotional weight with accessibility is a testament to the band's matured songwriting skills.

"Deja Entendu" is also notable for its thematic depth. The lyrics delve into personal and existential angst, showcasing lead singer Jesse Lacey's introspective and often melancholic writing style. Songs like "Guernica" and "Me vs. Maradona vs. Elvis" explore themes of death, self-destruction, and the struggle with personal demons. These themes resonate with a raw honesty that fans found relatable, helping to foster a strong, dedicated fan base.

The album's artwork is as distinctive as its music. The iconic cover featuring an astronaut sitting in a barren landscape became instantly recognizable and is often associated with the band's identity. The packaging of the CD itself was unique, featuring intricate artwork and hidden messages that contributed to a sense of mystery and depth, encouraging listeners to delve deeper into the music and its meanings.

Critically, "Deja Entendu" was well-received. Publications like Pitchfork and Rolling Stone gave it positive reviews, praising its emotional and musical complexity. The album's ability to resonate with a wide audience while maintaining a distinct sound was particularly noted. It was a commercial success as well, achieving a gold certification by the RIAA, indicating over 500,000 copies sold.

In terms of awards and nominations, while "Deja Entendu" itself may not have garnered any major music awards, its impact was felt strongly in the alternative and emo scenes. It influenced a number of bands and artists who cite Brand New as a key influence in their own musical journeys.

The production of "Deja Entendu" by Steven Haigler played a crucial role in its success. The nuanced production techniques helped to foreground the emotional heft of the lyrics while ensuring that the instrumentation did not overpower the vocal delivery. This careful balance is a key element of the album's enduring appeal.

In conclusion, "Deja Entendu" is more than just an album; it's a significant cultural artifact within its genre. Its release marked a maturation of Brand New's sound and lyrical prowess, and it continues to be celebrated for its depth, emotion, and creativity. Whether you're revisiting it or discovering it for the first time, "Deja Entendu" offers a rich, immersive listening experience that is both reflective and cathartic. It remains a pivotal work that not only defined Brand New's career but also left a lasting imprint on the landscape of early 2000s rock music.