Album Review: 408- ‘Over The Edge’

Pop-punk and alternative band 408 releases its most versatile and mature album yet with Over The Edge. The 13-song, 38-minute production sees the Florida foursome momentarily step away from its familiar poppy and bubbly style to create something extraordinary.

Like “All My Fault,” a loud message to the scene that 408 isn’t afraid to push the limits. The tune is a rare emo-country blend done to perfection. Frankly, it’s a combination that more bands should test. But most bands aren’t 408. And the Orlando natives clear comfort level with country shows in a hit tune.

In the album’s opening and title track, “Over The Edge,” 408 takes a crack at a club-ready track. It’s catchy without being overly produced. Like in “All My Fault,” 408 lays out the blueprint on how pop-punkers can stretch their wings without losing their ethos.

Then there’s “20 Something”, the relatable, nostalgic relationship song that fits the scene so well when done right. And this is done so right, showcasing each of the 408 boys’ skill sets.

Over The Edge might be at its strongest when it runs through “Girls Last Summer and “Can We Ever Save This?” The pair are the yin-yang in the album; two ends of the 408 spectrum. The former is pure pop-punk with a chorus tailor-made to the vocals of singer Mark Faroudi.

“Can We Ever Save This?” is an emo anthem, dripping with emotion and one of 408’s grittiest songs yet. But its tender ending is such an excellent touch. Other standout moments on Over The Edge include TX2 on “Second Chances,” the vocals on “Best You Never Had” and the work of Levi Hummon and Rivals on a couple of tracks.

Over The Edge is ultimately 408 coming out of its shell. The band takes the pop-emo sound and dips it in different genres. But the album’s highest points are when 408 emerges from its shell.

While the band has dabbled with a harder, emo-rock sound in the past, the guys absolutely crush this album’s heaviest moments. They shouldn’t, and almost undoubtedly won’t, abandon the catchy pop-punk sound. But when 408 needs to slay a heavy moment they clearly will. It’s such an exciting sign for 408’s future.