Vulnerable

by Josh Royce
After being around for a little over a decade now, The Used are set to release their fifth studio record on March 27th. Aptly titled “Vulnerable,” it’s surely a tribute to the troubles they’ve been through in the past years.


In the process of writing and recording new material in 2011, The Used announced that they were going to be leaving Warner Bros/Reprise records, their record label of 10 years. This news was taken as a letdown, however in September of 2011, The Used decided that they would be forming their own record company Dental Records and that their newest record would be released in February of 2012.

However, very soon after, plans had already changed with the group. For unknown reasons, Dental Records had been completely forgotten, and The Used signed with Hopeless Records after founding the “Anger Music Group.” Hopeless Records will run management, art direction, merchandise and video direction for the group. Also, the release date for “Vulnerable” was pushed back to March.

Despite all the back and forth information about their new release, they’ve finally released the album artwork, track listing, and a new single titled “I Come Alive.”

Based on clues from the newest single, we can expect an even catchier sound from The Used when “Vulnerable” comes out on March 27th. They’ve found a wonderful niche for themselves, utilizing the “gross pop” style they mastered with 2009’s “Artwork.”

Also, with other song names like “Now That You’re Dead,” and “Kiss It Goodbye,” it’s safe to assume that The Used haven’t strayed too far away from their comfort zone of painful and agonizing lyrics. Given that the group has undergone so many changes involving management and such, it makes sense that they would stick to writing the music they are more comfortable with.

Essentially, “Vulnerable” is looking to be yet another successful release by The Used. Die hard fans of the group should be pleased, while newcomers should have a lot to love. Pick up a copy when the album drops March 27th.