Photo Credit: Alexa Viscius
Marking 25 years since the release of their iconic debut, American Football’s LP1 has returned in the form of a reissue and a covers album, inviting fans to revisit the unmistakable combination of raw vulnerability and intricate instrumentation that cemented the album’s place in the Midwest emo genre. The original album has long captivated listeners with its reflective lyrics and math rock-influenced rhythms, and this anniversary edition is both a commemoration and a re-imagining, bringing the album’s legacy full circle.
From the first notes of Never Meant, LP1 captures an immediacy that remains just as palpable in its reissue. Every chord, note, and lyric on the album feels painstakingly deliberate; yet, with its characteristic open tunings and Mike Kinsella’s delicate vocals, the record is a reminder of American Football‘s ability to turn vulnerability into a quietly powerful force. The subtle re-mastering on the anniversary edition doesn’t alter the album’s essence, but enriches the texture of familiar tracks, allowing longtime listeners to re-engage with beloved nuances often overlooked.
However, one of the highlights of this release is the ambitious covers album, where a diverse range of artists – from modern indie staples to up-and-coming names in the emo scene- reimagine the tracks of LP1. This release isn’t just a tribute album; it feels more like an exploration of the emotional landscape American Football originally charted.
Ethel Cain’s rendition of For Sure is both ethereal and haunting, her plaintive vocal style fitting effortlessly within the song’s melancholic vibe. Cain’s version amplifies the feeling of longing at the heart of the track. At the same time, her atmospheric approach adds an almost cinematic depth, highlighting the timeless emotional pull of American Football’s songwriting.
Manchester Orchestra’s take on Stay Home is another standout. Known for their own style of emotionally charged rock, the band reimagines the track with an enthusiasm that brings a refreshing version of its themes of introspection and self-doubt. Manchester Orchestra’s interpretation is unique, layering in their distinct style while staying faithful to the song’s reflective roots. Their rendition shows LP1‘s capacity to adapt to new voices and new generations, while maintaining the same core of genuine vulnerability, which appeals to long-term fans.
Each cover on the album highlights a different facet of LP1, underscoring its universality and capacity for reinterpretation. This diverse line-up of artists brings out fresh perspectives while honouring the personal narrative of American Football’s original work, showing how a single album can transcend its genre to reach an emotional resonance that feels universally relatable.
For an album that was never meant to be more than a fleeting project, American Football’s LP1 has had an extraordinary influence, continuously engaging new fans while remaining a touchstone for the emo genre. With its re-mastered reissue and the companion covers album, this anniversary edition not only honours the album’s history, but broadens its relevance for today’s listeners. It’s a celebration of the delicate balance of emotional resonance and technical complexity that made LP1 an enduring classic, and an acknowledgement of its continued capacity to inspire.
9/10
Standout Tracks: Never Meant, Ethel Cain – For Sure, Manchester Orchestra – Stay Home
For Fans Of: Modern Baseball, Hot Mulligan, The Front Bottoms
Written by: Soph Johnson
