State Champs - State Champs

Deciding to self-title your fifth album often signals a definitive statement, a declaration of identity and reinvention. But with 'State Champs', the band falls short of delivering anything groundbreaking.

No doubt, State Champs are world beaters when it comes to crafting big pop choruses with layered guitars and snappy hooks, but this time around, it all feels a little too familiar. They found the secret a few albums and several years ago and have been prolific in that time, but, eventually, it becomes predictable.

Sure, there are highlights: 'Clueless' could easily soundtrack a classic 00s teen comedy, 'Sobering' brings a welcome dose of sass and 'Golden Years' is an instant hit, destined to hold its own alongside the sparkling, punchy anthems they've churned out over the last 15 years.

On that final track, they sing, "Even though things have to change / it doesn't mean they go away," followed by "Putting the past upon a shelf and falling in love with something else." It's solid advice - perhaps some they take themselves. While the track's optimism hints at new directions, it also suggests that the decision to self-title this effort may be more about closing a chapter.