Review CHEAP TRICK “All Washed Up”

Music is at its best when it’s authentic, which it is when the artists enjoy their work and are guided by an inner passion. This freedom is often present at the beginning of a career, but also when an artist or band no longer has anything to prove. Rock veterans Cheap Trick belong to the latter category, as they are among the all-time greats of rock.

Formed in 1970, these US rock pioneers have delivered timeless rock albums such as “Dream Police” and have the smash hit “I Want You to Want Me” in their repertoire. After more than five decades in the business, the band are still hungry, and what they deliver on “All Washed Up” connects with the band’s greatest moments.

The first four songs on the album make it clear what we can expect. “All Washed Up” is a diverse album featuring pop-infused hard rock songs. The throbbing opener, with its Detroit-fuelled momentum, is a great way to start the album. It’s a powerful opening that immediately creates the feeling of: I want to listen to more of this band!

Next is “All Wrong Long Gone”. This stomping mid-tempo rocker features Robin Zander’s roaring vocals, which are a real strength of this timeless rock song. “The Riff That Won’t Quit” shows some Aerosmith influences, followed by “Bet It All”. The latter is a slow-paced rock song with a doomy vibe. This is a hypnotic moment on the album, before the sweet melodies of “The Best Things” bring back a colourful sound showing some Beatles influences.

“Twelve Gates” was the lead single of “All Washed Up”, a sparkling rock song that provides the perfect soundtrack to a summer sunset. “Bad Blood” has excellent hooks, and although it is a feel-good song, there is a hint of melancholy.

The rock ‘n’ roll fever returns with “Rocking with the Band Dancing Wit”. With its pulsating rhythm, the song evokes the heyday of 70s rock. The basic mood of “Love Gone” is a melancholy one, and the influence of the Beatles is noticeable. Without being a ballad, the song is a soulful and touching moment on the album before “A Long Way to Worchester” puts a spell on you with its superbly done melody line. “Wham Boom Bang” is a vibrant, swinging finale that showcases the band’s exceptional musicianship.

“All Washed Up” is a brilliant album. Cheap Trick showcase the full spectrum of rock and hard rock, incorporating some pop-infused melodies to create a seamless listening experience. These guys clearly love making music, and do so with complete dedication. Each of these eleven tracks is a little masterpiece, built on experience and an untamed passion for great rock songs. “All Washed Up” is a highlight of 2025.