This type of catchy, pop-punk sound can be heard around the country from many groups; the difference with Count the Stars is that they are actually a good band.

Twenty years ago, Quiet Riot urged America to “bang their heads,” and nine-year-old boys everywhere were delighted by the song’s catchy hook and timeless message. Now a clever group of kids on Victory Records have named their group Count the Stars, which is inevitably what teenagers will be doing if they get knocked around in a mosh pit at one of their shows.

The CD gets off to a very exciting start with “Brand New Skin,” and the punk rock influence and high-energy guitar sound draw the listener in right away. This type of catchy, pop-punk sound can be heard around the country from many groups; the difference with Count the Stars is that they are actually a good band. Songs like “On the Way Home” really show that they can come up with melodies and have good vocal performances.

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