

They rescheduled European tour dates in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, and they were called off a second time after DeLonge suffered a herniated disc in his back. However, guitarist Tom DeLonge felt as though his creativity was stifled by label limitations, and sessions became contentious among the trio. Hit singles 'The Rock Show' and 'First Date' continued the band's mainstream success worldwide, with MTV cementing their image as video stars. Take Off Your Pants and Jacket became Blink-182's first number one album in the United States upon its June 2001 release it also hit the top position in Canada and Germany. Prior to the album's recording, guitarist and vocalist Tom DeLonge explored post-hardcore influences with side-project Box Car Racer. The album was the band's last recording with longtime producer Jerry Finn and their final original material before a four-year-long hiatus. The worldwide touring schedule, which saw the band travel to Japan and Australia, also found the three performing for troops stationed in the Middle East. Lead singles 'Feeling This' and 'I Miss You' received the most radio airplay out of the four singles released, and peaked high on Billboard charts. It received positive reviews, with critics welcoming its change in tone. In addition, its recording process was long and often unconventional.įans were generally split regarding the band's 'new' direction, but the album proved successful, selling 2.2 million copies in the United States.

The songwriting is more personal in nature and explores darker territory, touching upon the realities of adulthood and unexpected hardships. Its songs are sonically expansive and downcast, leading critics to view it as a more elaborate, mature side of the band. Recorded from January to October 2003 with producer Jerry Finn, Blink-182 marked a departure from the band's earlier work, infusing experimental elements, inspired by lifestyle changes (the band members all became fathers before the album was released) and side projects, into their usual pop punk sound.

When they regrouped, they felt inspired to approach song structure and arrangements differently on their next effort together. Following their ascent to stardom and success of their prior two releases, the trio was compelled to take a break and subsequently participated in various side projects (Box Car Racer and Transplants). Blink-182 is the fifth studio album by American rock band Blink-182, released on Novemby Geffen Records.
