Say Anything, courtesy.

Pop-punk band Say Anything has a new album coming out March 13; Anarchy, My Dear (Equal Vision Records).

Vocalist and band leader Max Bemis has said Say Anything’s fourth studio album was its first attempt at a true punk record. In that they have failed. There are still plenty of touches of emo, pop and even some ska.

The thematic element that binds the 11 tracks together is an attempt to subvert other genres, cliches and ways of thinking. “Admit It Again” takes on indie culture as we view it, for example.

Some of the best tunes feature Sherrie DuPree, of Eisley, whose calm, collected and ethereal voice provide a respite from Bemis’ emo outbursts. “So Good” is the best of those.

Lead-off track “Burn a Miracle” is a mighty strong pop-punk anthem as a stand-alone track, but not strong enough to carry the album on “punk” standards. This is sweet pop album, however; especially when Bemis is joined by DuPree on vocals.

Grade: B+

Listen to: “Burn a Miracle,” “So Good.”

Say Anything performs at the Regency Ballroom March 24.

Follow editor Roman Gokhman at Twitter.com/RomiTheWriter.