Middle-aged hipsters Weezer returns with “Mexican Fender,” a guitar-heavy track that serves as a promo single for ‘Pacific Daydream.’  

Some bands seem to fade and lose interest in recording new music past their prime. Weezer isn’t one of those bands.  While their popularity and relevance have diminished over the years, the alt-rockers continue to be prolific. Once more, Weezer returns with a new album, Pacific Daydream, due October 27.  “Mexican Fender” serves as a promo single, following “Feels Like Summer.”

The heaviness of the guitars is a pro, right from the jump of “Mexican Fender.” Makes sense, given the fact that Fender is a notable brand of guitars.  Vocally, Rivers Cuomo sounds as potent as ever.  His expressiveness hasn’t waned despite his middle age.  Thematically, the song focuses on a real-life encounter with a girl, presumably from a band.  The verses tell the story, beginning with meeting “her at guitar shop on Santa Monica and 7^th street,” as well as Cuomo being impressed with her “Bachelor’s degree in physics and a job in computer programming.”

Nice use of backing vocals during the chorus section, singing oohs behind Cuomo’s lead.  Naturally, the chorus is big, intense, and, well, emo – in a middle-aged hipster band way.  Notably, the end of the chorus is calmer, showcasing more poise.

“My summer love, oo-we-oo / My summer love, oo-we-oo / Oh she loves me, she loves me, she loves me not / Oh she loves me, she loves me, she loves me not.”

The bridge, following the first two verses and their respective choruses, is dramatic, dynamic, and boisterous.  If energy were ever in question at any point during “Mexican Fender,” the bridge serves as atonement.

“Gonna fly so high / To a place that we have never seen / Ever since you came ‘round / In a greasy tee and faded jeans, whoa / I got a cozy pad around the corner / Slide a little closer.”

Final Thoughts 

Does “Mexican Fender” build up anticipation for Pacific Daydream? Yes. The best and most lucrative days of Weezer are behind them, but Rivers Cuomo and company are still intriguing. “Mexican Fender” isn’t the crème de la crème of their illustrious collection, but a worthwhile addition.

Weezer • Pacific Daydream • Atlantic • Release: 10.27.17

Photo Credits: Atlantic