Song Review: "Radio" by Alkaline Trio

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I wanted to try something a little different these next few weeks by writing about a single song from an album that I think is an essential song for the emo and post-hardcore scenes. I hope for it to be a more accessible version of my usual album reviews, as they can be a bit to take in. So, without more pause, let’s begin.

If you are a massive Alkaline Trio fan like myself, then you know “Radio”. It is possibly their most well known song that the band themselves don’t like playing all that much. I see why: no band wants to be known by just one song. And even though Matt Skiba and Dan Andriano may not like playing it that much, it still is a genre defining track.

From the opening guitar to the Skiba’s throat-tearing screams, “Radio” is as emo as it can possibly get. Taking center stage are the well known feelings of sadness, anger, depression, and suicidal thoughts that come with a messy, and hard break up.

“Radio” doesn’t do much to stand out in a genre that is filled with similar songs, but it is the delivery that Skiba pulls off is what makes this song a real gut punch. Starting off sweet and tame, Skiba makes a gradual shift into screamo territory as the song reaches its apex of early 2000s teenage angst.

And I think that’s why the band nowe doesn’t enjoy playing it too much; they’re calmer, in their 40s, and putting out sugary sweet acoustic ballads. Emotions and outlooks change severely when you get yourself to a stable place, and luckily Trio has done that. I don’t think I would like “Radio” as much now if they put it out today. They were young, heartbroken, and probably drunk back when they put out Maybe I’ll Catch Fire so it fits.

Newfound maturity aside, I still enjoy “Radio”. I’ve only seen Trio live once, but they closed their set at The Metro in January of 2019 with the song and literally everyone in that sweaty venue was shouting along with Skiba.

It was badass, and was a testament to the song’s popularity and impact. For further evidence, watch Alkaline Trio’s 2002 performance of the song at Warped Tour where Chris #2 of Anti-Flag and Chuck Ragan of Hot Water Music belt out the song like there’s no tomorrow. I mean, talk about angst.

Love it or hate it, “Radio” is an essential emo song by a fantastic band that has defined emo with their melodic brand of goth-punk. Just don’t go out and say “Radio” is their best song; you’ll garner immense ire from me.

Below is the aforementioned performance at Warped Tour 2002.

https://youtu.be/G549NFM7q08