Review
"Let Go," Avril Lavigne's 2002 debut, is an absolute juggernaut in the pop-punk universe. This album shot Lavigne into the stratosphere and opened doors for countless female-fronted punk bands. With its dynamic mix of alternative rock, pop-punk, and post-grunge vibes, it struck a chord with a vast audience. Piling up over 16 million sales globally, "Let Go" isn’t just a hit; it’s a cultural phenomenon that earned 7x Platinum status from the RIAA and a diamond certification from Music Canada. It even snagged the fourth spot in *Rolling Stone*'s readers' poll for the best albums of the 2000s.
Tracks like "Complicated," "Sk8er Boi," and "I'm with You" are pure pop-punk gold, capturing teenage angst and rebellion in ways that still resonate today. The themes revolve around the messy drama of adolescence and the raw journey of self-discovery. The 2022 re-release for its 20th Anniversary added some remastered gems and bonus demos, though fans were split on the bonus track choices. However, the re-recorded version of "Why" got some major love. All in all, "Let Go" stands as a bold testament to Avril Lavigne's knack for penning catchy, relatable anthems and continues to be a nostalgic touchstone for those who lived through its initial release. - Sydney
