Even if you didn’t love it when it first dropped, chances are Kids In The Street has grown on you over the years. Why? Because the older you get, the more this album resonates. It’s a time capsule — a nostalgic trip back to being a kid in the street, both literally and metaphorically. Released in 2012, the album didn’t deliver a massive hit like “Swing, Swing”, “Move Along”, or “Gives You Hell”. But what it did offer was a full-bodied, emotionally rich experience that grows more rewarding with time.
Now, in 2025, and we have confirmation of the long-awaited fifth studio album from The Rejects. But if Kids In The Street had ended up being their final full-length statement, it stands as a fitting magnum opus — bold, ambitious, experimental, and deeply human. It didn’t get the love it deserved in its time, but maybe that was never the point. This record succeeds without chasing hits. It’s a complete artistic vision from start to finish.
For many fans, When The World Comes Down marked the moment The All-American Rejects truly found their voice — no longer chasing trends or playing to expectations. Kids In The Street took that foundation and ran with it. It’s the sound of a band making exactly the music they wanted to make. Synths, storytelling, groove, grit — it’s all here. Tyson, Nick, Mike, and Chris poured their hearts into this album, and it shows in every beat and every lyric.
Now, let’s break it down — track by track.
“Someday’s Gone”
An explosive opener that bridges their earlier work with their newer sound. It’s heavy, punchy, and packed with classic AAR lyricism. As the album’s first promo single, it set the tone: this record wouldn’t play it safe.
“Beekeeper’s Daughter”
Earworm? Absolutely. Radio hit? It should have been. The band was ahead of its time with this one. Just a few years later, this indie pop-rock style dominated the airwaves. Unfortunately, preconceived notions about AAR worked against it. Still, this is pop-rock done right — snarky, catchy, and sharp.
“Fast & Slow”
A fan favorite (and even Taylor Swift’s favorite from the album), this track grooves hard. It’s slick, sexy, and undeniably radio-ready. The drums snap, the lyrics slink, and the whole thing feels alive. A missed opportunity for a single, for sure.
“Heartbeat Slowing Down”
A haunting, cinematic ballad that showcases the band’s willingness to slow down and lean into atmosphere. The layered vocals, emotional build, and killer guitar solo make it a standout. And yes — that bridge? Flawless.
“Walk Over Me”
Loose, wild, and completely infectious. One of the band’s more rocking tracks, featuring another fantastic Nick Wheeler solo. The video? One of the coolest visuals they’ve ever created. Spiritually, this song feels connected to “Me vs. The World”.
“Out The Door”
One of the most slept-on gems in the Rejects catalog. It starts slow, almost breezy, but builds into something powerful. The siren sound layered in is either genius or madness — maybe both. Either way, it leaves an impression.
“Kids In The Street”
The title track. Nostalgic and atmospheric, it captures the album’s heart. A live staple for good reason — it’s cinematic, emotional, and filled with longing. And again… that bridge. Tyson’s voice soars.
“Bleed Into Your Mind”
Trippy, strange, and unforgettable. It may not click on first listen, but it’s hypnotic. The whip-crack percussion, haunting backing vocals, and mid-song shift make it one of their most experimental tracks to date.
“Gonzo”
A self-aware, slow-burn autobiography of the band’s career and struggles. It reflects on being misunderstood, compared, boxed in. Lyrically and emotionally, this song hits hard. A zen-like closer that’s both intimate and cinematic.
“Affection”
A dark horse favorite among fans. The third-act shift elevates it from good to great. Moody, vulnerable, and beautifully structured. It’s a perfect example of Tyson and Nick’s songwriting brilliance.
“I For You”
The quietest, rawest moment on the album. No effects. No overproduction. Just a stripped-down ballad that lands with emotional honesty. Hearing the pages turn in the background is a perfect metaphor — this is a personal entry in a very public diary.
Bonus Tracks Worth Mentioning
“Drown Next to Me”
One of their best deep cuts ever. Lush, cinematic, and emotionally massive. This track could stand proudly among their finest work.
“Do Me Right”
Another banger from the deluxe version. It’s catchy, clever, and further proof that this band doesn’t waste a single second of studio time.
Final Thoughts
Going on 13 years later, Kids In The Street feels more vital than ever. It’s a record about reflection, self-discovery, and confronting who you were with who you’ve become. It wasn’t built for the charts — it was built to last. And it has..
Thank you, Tyson, Nick, Mike, and Chris — not just for this record, but for continuing to be that band for so many of us. Still on the road, still pouring your energy into every show, still connecting with fans more than 25 years in — that’s no accident.
That’s legacy.
Anthem Era 
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