Does anybody remember laughter? Jesus Cristo! When emo unveiled itself to this generation a few years ago. I assumed it would be hip for a minute and die like ska in the late '90s. When this happens to most genres, a few true believers remain, and the airwaves are clear for the next ear turds. However, Annabel and the many bands that sound just like them have stuck around to milk the “sensitive soul” thing and make the young girls swoon. While I don't exactly love this brand of sad-bastard music, I understand its presence, and don’t fault the kids for getting in touch with emotion. Annabel can play well; the songs are well crafted, gooey and sad grooves complete with toy keyboards and synth drones. Lyrically, nothing stands as great, but they aren't offensively awful. I leave you with a request to the parents of the next generation: Please give your kids enough hugs, but not too many. - Jack Gregory