CD Burners 33: The Boybandification of Pop Punk | Say It Like You Mean It by The Starting Line w/ Ken Vasoli
Nov 5, 2024
This chat features Ken Vasoli, the singer of The Starting Line and Vacationer, who started his journey in music at just 14. They dive into the nostalgia of the early 2000s pop-punk scene, exploring the symbolism of album covers and the evolution of the genre. Ken reflects on the impact of their debut album, its catchy hooks, and how it shaped modern acts like Taylor Swift. They also discuss unexpected fame, the balance between authenticity and commercial success, and memorable anecdotes from their musical journey.
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Trombino's Detached Production Role
- Mark Trombino likely viewed "Say It Like You Mean It" as a paycheck job, not a passion project like his work with Jimmy Eat World.
- The album’s polished, clean sound contrasts Trombino’s preference for grittier, dirtier punk production.
Boybandification of Pop Punk
- The Starting Line's "Say It Like You Mean It" sparked the "boybandification" of pop punk by appealing heavily to teenage girls.
- This album set a cultural shift in pop punk from jokey to heartthrob-centered music, influencing bands like Fall Out Boy.
Guest Vocals in Pop Punk
- Nate from Finch contributed screaming vocals on the track "Cheek to Cheek" because Ken lacked confidence in his own scream.
- Guest vocals and gang vocals were a common rite of passage and bonding in the early 2000s pop punk scene.
