So Much (For) Stardust, the latest addition to Fall Out Boy’s post-hiatus catalog, evokes feelings of nostalgia while still capturing the band’s newer sound. 

Out of Fall Out Boy’s four modern releases, Stardust most resembles the band’s original sound. It’s the closest in terms of their romantic instrumentals, especially with the track “I Am My Own Muse,” and those early 2000s sounding vocals. 

While the album still lives in the shadow of its experimental predecessor Mania, it’s surely one of the band’s better recent releases. 

Stardust’s opening track, “Love From The Other Side,” is a perfect example of how Fall Out Boy is able to combine the dorky punk sound they are known for with the more poppy vibes that the more recent albums produce. 

The album isn’t entirely a blast from the past, though. Tracks such as “Heartbreak Feels So Good” and “So Good Right Now” show the band’s steps toward the techno/pop genres. 

This album is bittersweet for longtime fans, however, as guitarist Joe Trohman is taking a short break from the band throughout their current tour cycle. However, his exceptional work is still portrayed in the album’s insanely good backing tracks. 

It’s true that Stardust has not received the same hysteria as earlier works, but to many, the lack of advertisement for this album strengthens the authenticity of the band, and this album is nothing short of authentic. 

So Much (For) Stardust is perfect for longtime fans of the group, along with those just getting into the emo scene, and is definitely worth multiple listens.