Real Talk proved to be the soundtrack of many fans’ summers last year. From the addictive vocal hooks and melodies to the shredding guitar and bombastic drumming, the record was everything pop-punk needed – and more. As a result, Man Overboard proved to be the top up-and-coming pop-punk act of the year in 2010. Since June of last year, there’s no denying these boys have gone through a myriad of changes. First and foremost is their signing to Rise Records, which appeared to be both a blessing and a curse for MO. Many worried about this label choice, slandering bands such as Attack Attack!; the other side, however, felt this signing would add a breath of fresh air to Rise. It appears it has done the latter, respectively. The second major change is in the lineup with the leaving of guitarist Wayne Wildrick leaving the band. As a result, drummer Justin Collier moved to guitar while Mike Hrycenko (of Front Page) took over on drums. With the lineup set, the guys were signed to Rise and ready to rock again. The result of these changes is simply The Absolute Worst EP, and a paradox at that. This two-track 7” release is everything we loved with Real Talk, so no worries about the result of the changes, as it’s the antithesis of its own title. “The Absolute Worst” is the first track on the release, a track both downright hilarious and addictive. Zac Eisenstein sings “so please don’t continue to b**ch / I’m too good for someone like you anyway / because girls like you are the absolute worst” in what is arguably the catchiest – most amusing – chorus Man Overboard have ever penned. The comedy continues throughout the track, leaving the listener singing along while laughing loudly. The second (and sadly last) track is “I Saw Behemoth And It Ruled,” a b-side from Real Talk. The difference here from the original is it’s a full band effort here – fully electric and ramped up to 10. Nik Bruzzese’s muscular bass presses on the gas here, as he and Eisenstein’s vocals play off each other wonderfully. The addictive “Whoa-oh-ohs” are as prevalent as ever here, again proving Man Overboard can truly do no wrong. Another captivating track, “Behemoth” ends the EP too soon, as it seems to end just when it got started. All in all, The Absolute Worst EP cements every aspect of Man Overboard’s esteemed style, proving nothing has changed. Man Overboard are here for another great year, and this is just a taste of what’s to come – more soaring, catchy tunes made for the summer sun.