Cheap Trick drops 21st album after 50 years in the music industry

Cheap Trick, a long-standing rock band based in Rockford, Illinois, recently released their 21st studio album titled All Washed Up on November 14. With a career spanning over five decades, the quartet has continuously impressed audiences with their energetic performances and innovative albums.

The album’s title pays homage to their 1980 release, All Shook Up, while also playfully mocking artists from the 1970s who are struggling to adapt to the modern streaming era. The cover art features four washing machines, showcasing the band’s signature dark humor that has been a constant throughout their career.

Lead vocalist Robin Zander’s vocals on the album display a strength and power reminiscent of their debut album back in 1977. Guitarist Rick Nielsen’s son, Daxx, took over drumming duties in 2016, bringing a fresh energy to the band’s sound.

With over 20 albums under their belt, Cheap Trick’s live album Cheap Trick at Budokan unexpectedly soared to the Top 5, solidifying their status as rock legends. In 1988, the band explored a new direction by collaborating with outside songwriters, leading to their first and only No. 1 hit, the power ballad “The Flame.”

Despite Nielsen’s age of 76, his guitar work on the new album remains as dynamic and captivating as ever. Tracks like “All Wrong Long Gone” and “Twelve Gates” showcase the band’s ability to craft catchy melodies and infectious harmonies. “Dancing with the Band” features irresistible choruses, while “A Long Way to Worcester” incorporates swampy grooves and bass lines reminiscent of Todd Rundgren.

Producer Julian Raymond, who has been working with Cheap Trick for the past decade, played a crucial role in shaping the album’s sound, ensuring that each track maximizes its impact within the concise 40-minute runtime. All Washed Up marks the band’s first release since 2021 and continues their resurgence that began with the success of “Bang, Zoom, Crazy…Hello” in 2016.

This latest album is a testament to Cheap Trick’s enduring creativity and musical prowess, featuring 11 diverse and dynamic tracks that capture the essence of the band’s iconic sound. Fans of the band can look forward to experiencing the energy and passion that Cheap Trick has embodied throughout their legendary career.