By Amanda Webster

Silverstein’s new album titled Short Songs is just that; a track list of 22 songs that all fall within the 90 second mark. The first half of the album consists of original songs by Silverstein and the second half are covers of short songs originally performed by various punk artists including Green Day, Gorilla Biscuits and Descendents to name a few.

Much like a ‘5-hour Energy’ shot, the undersized songs pack a powerful punch that will leave listeners feeling the aftereffects for a period much longer than the entire 20 minute album.

The original songs on the album are more of what one would expect from a Silverstein album with songs like “SOS” and “Sick As Your Secrets,” that bring them towards the heavier end of the punk spectrum. “Sleep Around” is a slower melodic song that speaks to how this band does not need a heavy bass and screeching vocalist to deliver lyrics such as “Start with best intent, you’ve earned it. Promise was made, not kept, you’ve burned it.”

The cover work is not overly impressive but, then again, how much can you change in a song that lasts about 28 seconds like “xOn Our Kneesx” originally by The Swarm.

Overall, “Short Songs” is a unique piece of work that shows how truly talented these guys are as a band and how versatile they can be with their music. Each song is a brave attempt to do something creative and I applaud Silverstein for their twist on this record.