After a 14-year hiatus, Algernon Cadwallader return with Trying Not to Have a Thought, a record that proves their influence on the emo-revival movement is as sharp as ever. Known in the late 2000s for sweaty basement shows, blown-out YouTube clips, and chaotic VFW hall gigs, the Philadelphia trio built their reputation on finger-tapped riffs, playful urgency, and a sense of communal catharsis. Their comeback album captures that same energy while layering it with newfound maturity and a social awareness that feels timely.

Musically, the album doesn’t attempt to reinvent the band but instead refines what made them cult heroes in the first place. The jagged guitar work, dizzying rhythms, and sing-shouted vocals return with infectious energy. Yet, there’s a sense of polish that makes these songs resonate differently from their early recordings. Tracks feel more intentional, less like reckless bursts of teenage adrenaline and more like a group of seasoned musicians reflecting on how to keep the fire alive without losing their footing.

Lyrically, Trying Not to Have a Thought balances the personal with the political. While Algernon’s earlier work often reveled in offbeat storytelling and raw emotion, this record nods to broader themes mental health, social pressures, and the weight of living through chaotic times. It’s a reminder that emo has always been about more than sadness; it’s about connection, questioning, and building resilience.

For longtime fans, the album feels like a reunion with old friends who’ve grown but haven’t lost their spark. For new listeners, it’s a perfect entry point into why Algernon Cadwallader became legends of DIY emo in the first place. Trying Not to Have a Thought isn’t just a comeback it’s proof that the band still knows how to turn chaos into camaraderie.