8/10

While in their early beginnings and onto their self-titled debut album, Toronto punk band PUP were a rather unhinged bunch. Taking their punk ethos to the absolute limit, the group's sound was a mess of thrashing guitars and sub-par production. Now with their follow-up, it is clear they have learned from the mistakes of the past and managed to create something not only audible but extremely fun as well.

With their love of quotable lyrics and gang vocals, 'The Dream Is Over' sees them as a band with a focused direction, making their sound more succinct than ever. With comparisons that could include early Weezer and Pulled Apart By Horses, the album is a riff-tastic blend of catchy guitar hooks and singalong choruses that make this half-hour record such a joy to listen to.

It probably treads the side of pop-punk more this time but with music this good, it seems PUP have found their feet on this new album and have created a truly great release as a result. A must-hear for anyone wanting something louder and faster than your average.