The Goodwill

Insult, Injury, Etc... (2005)

Erin_Jackson

Bassist Josh Moskoviz says the sophomore release from the Goodwill is different than their first album, which was "pop-punk." He says the addition of a new guitarist allowed the band to develop a sound for Insult, Injury, Etc… that "still maintains the poppiness and catchiness, only with a darker, more hard-edged, unique sound." Maybe I'm not getting it, because even after a few listens, it was clear to me that the Goodwill still has some growing to do before they fit their bad-boy britches. A number of the tracks on the disc feature aggressive guitar and percussion that, unfortunately, clashes with the vocals. Brian Barbuto strains at times to match the intensity of the sound around him, something that is most obvious in "To Live And Die On LI." The track features strong percussion reminiscent of Bad Religion, but the vocals don't quite measure
up. Judging from the band's MySpace site, the kids are really digging the
pop-punk sound, and it might be smart to stick with a recipe that works.

At its worst, Insult, Injury, Etc… is derivative. The Goodwill is a punk
band that, like so many others, has decided (consciously or not) that the
next step in their evolution is to become "darker" and "harder." Even if
this is the best move, the band has quite a way to go before it can
legitimately attach those adjectives to their music.

At its best, this album is singable, girl-friendly punk rock that, unless
you really crank it, won't annoy your parents or neighbours. "Live From
The Red Carpet" is a standout hit with a great guitar hook, smart lyrics and
strong delivery. "Your Friendly Ghost" continues the successful stride
with instantly memorable lyrics such as "this is all you're gonna get - no
more - no less" that'll have you singing along in no time. "The Perfect
Honeymoon" follows with flawless architecture - an example of when The
Goodwill does punk rock right.