Jimmy Eat World's ninth studio album, Integrity Blues, is a masterful blend of emo, pop punk, and emo pop, showcasing the band's ability to craft infectious and emotionally resonant songs. Released on 21 October 2016 via RCA Records and Exotic Location Recordings, this 11-track album is the follow-up to their 2013 release, Damage. Produced by Justin Meldal-Johnsen, known for his work with Beck, M83, and Paramore, and mixed by Ken Andrews, who has worked with Blink-182 and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Integrity Blues features the standout single "Sure and Certain".
With a duration of 46 minutes, the album takes the listener on a journey through a range of emotions, from the upbeat and energetic to the introspective and melancholic. The band's songwriting is both personal and relatable, making for a deeply engaging listen. Jimmy Eat World's Integrity Blues has been praised by critics, with some considering it their best record since Bleed American. The album's expansive and emotionally weathered soundscapes are a testament to the band's skill and craftsmanship. Featuring additional vocals from Courtney Marie Andrews and Robin Vining, as well as instrumentation from Nick Daley, Rob Schear, and Mike Whitson, Integrity Blues is a rich and satisfying listen. Overall, Jimmy Eat World's Integrity Blues is a compelling and emotionally charged album that is sure to resonate with fans of the band and the genre.