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When I first received this CD, you could say that I was more than sceptical. Simple Plan had taken a couple of years out to write and record the follow up to 2004's "Still Not Getting Any..." to the best of their abilities, and hopefully to epic results. A couple of weeks ago, I was lucky enough to capture a quick glimpse of a couple of their new tracks at their "Camden Takeover", and it left me wanting more. However, does this album live up to the expectations? Was Simple Plan's long leave of absence to get this album completed justified? Was it worth the wait?

The first track on the album is their current single "When I'm Gone". Full of anthemic choruses that are almost guaranteed to be echoed back to the band in mass sing-a-longs, it's no wonder why this song was picked as the lead track off this record.

"Take my Hand" has a rather more rocky edge to it, citing the different influences and producers which have worked on the record. It also has an edge of electronic beats pumping throughout the track, along with Simple Plan's trademark choruses.

My personal favourite track on this album is titled "Love Is a Lie", ever since I heard them play it acoustically at "The Underworld" and again at "Electric Ballroom" on their Camden Takeover. Pierre's harmonies with David Desrosiers merge so well and are one of the reasons why this song I believe is such a success. Desrosiers' echoing vocals in the chorus also adds another level to the track; I wouldn't be surprised if this was a single in the making.

The "Perfect" or "Untitled" track of this album comes in the form of "Save You". The pure sound of Pierre's voice carries this track beautifully, and the tone of trust in his voice make you truly believe in the words he is singing. Written about his brother's battle through cancer, this emotional song has amazing depth and honestly.

The 6th track on the album, "Generation", you can immediately hear takes some inspiration from the R&B producers which have collectively worked on the record. Beginning with the fanfare at the beginning, into the slightly synthesized vocals, and then into the extremely powerful (and catchy) chorus. The theme of the fanfare runs throughout and makes this track rather individual. Merging the sounds that the producers are used to, and with Simple Plan's pop-punk sound, they create something rather magical.

The only track in the whole album that doesn't immediately enthral me is "The End", Pierre's monotone vocals for the first minute or so of the song is quite warring. Once the song gets going, it is a good track, but the weak beginning for me makes this the only track that I am tempted to skip.

The band recently stated in regards to their new album that "...we want to push things further". Simple Plan have defiantly not lost their charm which attracted so many people to their first two records; but will this album be enough to propel them to places they've never even imagined? Judging from the time, energy and pure emotion they have leaked into this record, I think they're ready for anything.