I’m not an AJR fan myself, but the fact that some people will genuinely hate you for your inconsequential opinion on a band is actually mind-boggling.

AJR occupies an interesting place in music where they've achieved success despite being the direct antithesis of everything most critics deem to be objectively good.

As someone diagnosed with ADHD the chaotic nature of their music is super nice to listen to in the background and keeps my brain stimulated. Surprisingly it is the only thing that can make me focus and it’s super nice music. Thanks for a positive take!

They're my favorite band, and i never knew so many people despise them, i love their music, but i understand why people dislike their music. Ultimately, i wish people were less hateful about their music

As someone who grew up as a theater kid and was obsessed with Tally Hall, AJR is like the perfect band for me lol

my ajr experience: heard the intro of "thirsty," thought i'd found the worst band ever, watched a live performance of the song to laugh, ended up not just laughing but enjoying how they seemed to be taking it lightly too. i respect these dudes for their unabashed silliness

They articulate feelings on top of feel good music. I often refer to them as "Existential Crisis" The Band That's the appeal

I started out kind of a fan with their Neotheater songs, but when OK Orchestra Hit, I genuinely loved their music. Not because the songs bang, but they also convey positive messages to people overcoming obstacles based on mental trauma or being stuck in a hard place. I genuinely really hate that they are getting so much hate over their own style of music, they are a very talented group of people that will never stop to make me smile.

I am a die hard AJR fan for many reasons, so many reasons that I couldn’t list all of them. I don’t actually mind that a lot of people hate AJR, everybody loves their own kind of music! The thing that makes me sad is when people go out of their way to hate on them… To stoop so low as to tell someone else what they like is bad? Just let me get excited about my favorite band!! And they’re such good people, who write from the heart.

I've only started listening to AJR for less than a year, through recommended songs on Spotify like Come Hang Out, but when That Maybe Man came out, it just got me in a way no other album has ever done. Inertia was just a song describing the feeling I've had since the pandemia ended and came back "to normal" and I had so much trouble explaining to people. The Maybe Man is just a compilation of the feelings of my early 20's. Right now I'm just hoping they came to Brazil with TMM, maybe in 2024 I'll have the chance to see them live, their shows just look amazing (been watching on KZfaq some of then).

As one of the biggest AJR fans, I appreciate this video. It's so easy to go online and see hate towards them, and harder to find people who genuinely like their music. I enjoyed hearing your perspective and it was even cool to see Brad recommend this video, considering he despises AJR's music. I've personally been a fan since "100 Bad Days", although I had heard and enjoyed their music before. My current favorite song is off of "The Maybe Man" called "Steve's Going to London" because its a very carefree song that embraces the idea that music doesn't always have to be super meaningful.

AJR is known for being very unique and stuff, and my old friend would make fun of me for liking them calling them “unoriginal” 😭

As someone who was a fan of AJR as a teen when "Weak" came out, but grew out of it, this video is pretty nostalgic. Awesome trip through the band's history.

cannot be hated by the world if you are a complete unknown band, if they are that hated it means their music was able to reach an incredible amount of people, and i love that.

Here from Brad. Absolute banger of a video. Keep it up man 👍

As someone who is a massive fan of AJR, it’s not something I can describe. I love their music, but I also love them as people too. I feel like I have such a deep connection with them through the music, which is exactly what they’re going for. I know I’m not alone here, they just have something that once you hear them, you’ll get sucked in if you are the right person. The people who get it, get it. The rest of the people don’t. That’s something I love about them too. Like I said, I really don’t know how to put it into words.

I can't lie; I loved "Weak" in the day. My girlfriend likes some AJR songs, so I asked if she wanted to see them (I love live music, and it can make or break an artist). She was skeptical, but she agreed. We went, and we had a blast (it was on June 9th at the Westville Music Bowl). The brothers are truly fantastic live performers who interact with the crowd and put a smile on everyone's faces.

IMO, what makes AJR so special to me and millions of other fans, is that the longer you've been a fan, the more invested you become. I've been a fan for 4-5 years now, and watching how their music perfectly showcases not only what they themselves are going through, but what many of their fans also go through, makes them feel more personable than any other band. Also, they've mentioned time and time again that they love performing on stage for their fans, which to me is proof that they just love to entertain and spread joy and form a deep connection with their fans. I mean hell, what other band plays dodgeball or gives lessons on making music to their VIP members for tours. It's just so unique and that's why I love them.

As a person who definitely doesn't like ajr, I appreciate seeing someone else's perspective. Great video

As someone who loves and has been an AJR fan since Middle School (Now a sophomore in college) I can definitely see when people don't like al of their music. Amazing video covering the band overall. One thing I will say is if you can see them live, do it.

AJR is my favorite band of all time, their beats are amazing but the lyrics truly hit you like a truck, I’ve been listening since The Click, and AJR has genuinely saved my life throughout the hardest times I’ve been going through.

Wow, you did your research!! Awesome video! As of fan of AJR since 2014, what first appealed to me was their personalities, they’re genuine and kind people, no matter how you feel about the music you can’t deny they’re nice guys ❤️ Some other nice things they’ve done for their fans is given them cocoa while waiting in line in the cold for a concert, Adam waited with fans while their cab came to make sure they got home safe in NY, they’ve given their fans gifts and free M&G, the list goes on! I love their music but I enjoy it 10x more knowing the people behind have a good heart.

As someone who has been a fan of them since their very first album, I feel like I grew up with them. Their music speaks to me and gives me music with lyrics I can’t find anywhere else. Based on just how life is, no romanized or depressing songs, just stuff that is super relatable! Ngl I’ve had a few songs that I didn’t like or fit the image I have, but those guys are very real and genuine human beings. For someone who is just an everyday person, I’ve never related so hard to a band that has those record numbers. Also putting it out there, their shows are so good and they clearly try to blow you away every single time. :) I really liked the video btw, it was a great perspective!

I really have no idea why I like their music, the weird sounds and funky tunes just kind of scratches my brain idk. I love how you can never predict what they're going to do with a song, or what sounds they're gonna use. And I can relate to a lot of the themes of course, their new album came out at the perfect time and I'm currently going through a lot of the things they describe in that album. I do think their older albums have a lot of pretty bad songs (thirsty is an eternal stain on their discography), but I am a big fan of their newer albums, particularly OKO and TMM. I get why people don't like them, not everyone likes their style of music, but I kind of wish people would leave them alone a bit - like yeah, you don't like their music, obviously there's always going to be music you don't like, that's just how art in general is. There's no need to dedicate so much time and effort into expressing how much you hate them, just accept you don't like the music and move on, y'know? But to be honest hating on stuff can be kinda fun so I get it. Thanks for making an unbiased video like this, I'll show this to anybody if I need to introduce them to the band and why I like them. Keep it up :)

I didn’t realize that so many people hated on them, but they’re one of my favorites. Their mix of meaningful lyrics with catchy beats is what keeps me coming back. Also, as a theatre kid, I LOVE that they have an Overture on each album.

As an AJR fan, we all agreed to forget about thirsty.

AJR is interesting; I'm not a huge fan of their music, but I honestly have a high level of respect for what they do. Great video and make Falling in Reverse next

I fell in love with OK Orchestra when Spotify recommended it to me during the pandemic. I watched the countdown for Maybe Man and listened as soon as it launched. They've become my favorite band and basically the only music I listen to. And I had no clue that people hated them until watching your video. I never even considered that some people would even dislike their music, let alone farm youtube view shouting vitriol for them. wild.

Im an AJR fan and its been so fun to see how their music style has changed over the years. TMM is their best one yet. I get how people don't like them, they do have an extremely unique style, but everyone has different tastes and their sound is so appealing to me. Good video man.

recently got really into ajr earlier in the year after listening to "Break My Face". i used to hate on them (i dont remember why) but now i love them so much and listen each day. love this perspective

As an Ajr fan, I can confirm that we don’t talk about living room

I’m a pretty big fan of AJR, but I can’t say they don’t have their faults. Their lyrics are weird sometimes, they have songs that just don’t have a rhythm that sounds nice, but they definitely have improved which each album. They’ve grown and have just about perfected their craft. They aren’t for everyone, no music will ever be, ( other than maybe Kahoot music ) and I appreciate you not being one sided on liking or disliking, but being open minded to both sides.

A lot of people knock on AJR for having simplistic lyrics, but that's one of my favorite things about them. Often, internal thoughts aren't metaphors or similes but just direct language. It's really helpful sometimes to hear a beautiful instrumental paired with straightforward lyrics that speak to you. For example, hearing "I've gotta get better, I'm all that I've got" at the end of 2085, on my first listen of TMM, was just heavenly. I could feel the intention and I could relate to it.

As a pretty big AJR fan, I loved this video. Perfectly captured people’s opinions on the band (whether it’s good or bad) in an unbiased way. Keep up the good work

Even though I don’t like their music at all, I still respect what they’ve accomplished and they seem like really nice guys

as someone who grew up as an ajr fan but has since grown out of their music, i can say that their music is very helpful for capturing how you feel (i believe their overly general and simple lyrics make this possible), and that their showmanship is truly next level. One thing no online critic has done is go to a show, but when you go to an ajr show it is so evident how much choreography goes into it. They frequently interact with the crowd with multiple (almost bits) segments to the point where you feel almost on stage.

I met (pun intended?) AJR at a record signing for their latest album. The store gave priority entry to everyone who pre-ordered the album, which I did. I had put the CD and pre-order receipt in my coat pocket. When it was almost my turn, I took the case out and discovered the receipt's adhesive had stuck to the case, but it didn't tear off cleanly. I showed the guys and apologized, but they said I didn't need to apologize for that. Super nice guys. The other fans in line were nice too. The kid in front of me had a drawing he made of the band to show them. One of the songs playing on the loudspeaker was a song I learned they made for charity a few years ago about domestic violence. They're not bad people, but while they certainly have good ideas, I think the execution in their songs often leaves something to be desired. There's a lot of irony and cynicism in their lyrics, like in Birthday Party. I imagine that means the sugary, over-the-top production common in the band's music is meant to be ironic too. Or at least I hope so. I refuse to believe a song like Thirsty was meant to be taken seriously.

The reason i resonate with AJR so much is how much i relate to the music. I have a sister named Winter, so whenever we hang out we always bring up “Dear Winter” and have a laugh. Also, about a month after they released “God is Really Real,” my father passed, and it was nice to have a song that i could relate to that strongly with. AJR is not for everyone, but it will always hold a special place in my heart no matter what. Also, thank you for doing actual research on them! A lot of people just write them off without looking at who they are! Thank you for the video

Gonna chip in from someone that's been closely following them and being heavily involved with their community since Neotheater released and would genuinely consider them my favorite band. When I was listening through Neotheater for the first time, I really didn't think of it too much until it got to their song Karma. Something about that song hit me as it had perfectly described what I had been going through at that time, but I had NO idea how to put it into words. I remember by the time the song finished, I had cried, something I hadn't done with a song in YEARS. From there I fell in love with the band. How honest they were in their music. How honest they were as people. They really helped me get through high school as I was 14 when Neotheater released so the general theme of the album regarding growing up really struck a nerve with me. Neotheater and their music in general has genuinely helped me get through some of the worst and hardest moments of my life so far and without them, I don't think I would have gotten through things. Neotheater honestly changed my life and I really wouldn't be who I am without it. It helped me fall in love with music and going to their Neotheater tour made me fall in love with live music as it was my first concert and I've gone to all of their tours since (as well seeing my other favorite artists live!). Being with them for over 4 years now, it feels like I've grown up with the band now as I'm in college (I'm gonna be 20 next year 🥲) and yet they're still able to release songs at the right times in my life when I need them the most, and they still hit as hard as ever. I was able to meet them last year during their OK Orchestra tour and I was able to pour my heart out to them really about how much they helped me. I knew they were nice already, but that day I really felt their love and appreciation towards their fans. They were so kind and patient with me about it all to where they upgraded me to pit for free just so I could get the button (which was the big finale of that tour where they picked an audience member to push a button). The button has a really big meaning behind it regarding mental health which I really recommend looking into for anyone who doesn't know, but it literally meant the entire world to me. They absolutely love their fans so much and that night further proved it to me. I do get why people don't like/care for them honestly. I really do and that's totally okay!! The issue I have is where people needlessly go out of their way to attack the artist and their fans over them not liking AJR. It goes for any artist really; I wish people could just simply ignore them and move on with their lives instead of wasting it on bashing something they don't even like. I wish people would treat each other nicer with music taste and opinions in general, but sadly what can you do. I do remember in an interview that they acknowledged this massive amount of hate that they get and Jack responds with a comment like "If we have a million haters but if we're able to help at least one person with it, that's all that matters" which speaks volumes about how much they care about their fans and how that's their main priority. This was a great video!! Really refreshing to see videos like this of AJR. All for having mature discussions about them!

Im a fan of AJR but even more a fan of Owl City. I feel like Owl City falls into the same boat of disliked because of lyrics and production but has a lot of fans that love his musical style and relatability. I personally love how each song has so many layers and harmonies and synths that sound amazing (again, similar to AJR) Also its just one guy (Adam Young) that does all the production, writing and vocals which is really cool.

I was a big AJR fan in middle school. When I hit highschool, I really switched to my tally hall, lemon demon, will wood era. But I love AJR, and how it helped me through that time. Someone said “a real AJR fan doesn’t get mad when AJR get criticized, we sigh and listen to neotheater.” Which is so true. Neotheater is my favorite album from them, cause there messages are really relatable to me. Idk. I like the sensory overload :3 (I’m neurodivergent)

as an ajr fan, we don't talk about thirsty.

I started listining to them in middle school, and now I'm a college sophomore and I'm still obsessed. I just love the way the do the instruments and the sounds. I also just like their personality and vibes, but really its just how happy their music makes me on a fundamental level.

I only started getting into AJR because of my son but then some songs started to grow on me- now they seem to satisfy a tickle in my brain and I don’t know why I can’t stop smiling and moving when I hear them. Fave song is Bummerland. We went to their concert in April and I get it now. I understand what the draw is for those people that are their fans. It just hits different. It’s not music about big booties or WAP, or tragic breakups. It’s life. It’s what we go through and we’re on that journey together.

My favourite band is AJR . Especially there latest album the maybe man . From what i have realised in my journey is that AJR is way way different than mainstream song writers it is what attracts people to them but also makes people stay away . Ajr fans are some of the nicest and most respectful fans you will find . There concerts are amazing and the songs so relatable. I have found myself communities of AJR fans which i am really happy to be i

Reading this comment section really just shows how AJR fans and haters get along. Most people respect that you may like the band and us fans respect that many others don't like the band. AJR is one of the few artists that have this.

As someone who is a massive AJR fan, their music just makes me happy. I never really listen to the lyrics of songs, I just listen to how it feels to me. AJR scratches the itch that no other band can consistantly scratch. I would always make self-depricating jokes about my liking of AJR because it was funny, but after I saw them live for the first time, I vowed to never justify my enjoyment of them again. Inertia and Maybe Man are definitely my favorite songs from them. They're the first songs that I've ever felt like I could actually relate to.

loved this video, as AJR fan sometimes it's hard for other people not understanding why you like the stuff you enjoy I made plenty of AJR videos on why I love them and most of the time people don't seem to like it but it's their messages on why they are a great band because some of the stuff they are saying you can picture yourself in those certain situation (or at least that is why i love them)

I love AJR so much, mostly because they actually feel like real people and make music like they really care about their fans. They aren’t like the artists that just abuse being able to write absolute nonsense or write songs about sleeping with a bunch of women with no respect for themselves, but instead write relatable songs that someone can think about once it’s over.

The reason I like AJR is cause I am a young adult and I do relate to the lyrics. Also I love the whacky sounds so much.

As someone with sensory overload, this band is amazing. AJR's music just hits that part of me that loves sounds like this, without overwhelming me- Plus they just feel so genuine. They don't hold back, they say exactly what they feel, and it's nice. Refreshing, kinda.

I'm a musician and a big AJR fan. Their music is unique and just perfectly chaotic enough to be interesting but not too much to just be a mess, their lyrics always hit all the spots (safe to say that I am definitely in their target demographic) and the fact that they produce all their music themselves is definitely a plus for me currently making and learning how to produce my own songs myself. However I have noticed that a lot of my other musician friends seem to have this hate for the band and I've never understood why. So this video was certainly informative and entartatining.

I don’t like AJR, but I have to admit they know how to make a song move you. Not in any deep lyrics or strong melodies, but they know how to make music with a really strong sense of momentum. Each bar leads into each other and builds up in a satisfying way. I dislike most of their songs most of the time, but I’ll admit some of the music has given me chills. I can totally see why people like them.

I am extremely proud to say that I’m a die hard AJR fan. I think their music is incredible and relatable and have personally changed my life. Their songs made me cry, smile and laugh but regardless make me happy. I think they’re great and make such powerful messages through unique and inspirational music. I do understand why people my not like them, as you need to understand and relate to songs to love them. I’m always and forever proud of them ❤

One thing I have to say, is this is the first review ish type thing that I’ve seen that doesn’t insult AJR constantly. So good job on that.

I could talk for hours on why I like AJR. I can’t say I’m the number one AJR fan or that I like every one of their songs but Damnit, I’ve listened to them for like 3 weeks straight at this point and I think my family hates me for it. Their older songs, like pre click, I genuinely cannot listen to, but hey, improvement happens and they’re getting better every year! Second reason I like them so much, I’m a theatre kid with too much childhood trauma. I don’t wanna go too deep into it but like. Damn My Play and the general theatre and childish vibes hits close to home. Third, I’ve found myself in the most. AJR situation imaginable. I’m going to college this year, and potentially moving out and making life changing decisions while my parents are in the other room arguing about their divorce. So, AJR has definitely helped me out mentally so much. Fourth reason: I’m autistic and it effects how I listen to music. Not every autistic person is like me, but my autism has definitely effected my music taste. (This can be seen through how most music artists I follow have a somewhat large autistic fan base as well. It’s also how I learned I was autistic.) I find the sounds of AJR to be stimulating but not overstimulating. Actually even helping in some situations where I would normally get overstimmed. 5th reason: (I am not being consistent with how I list these. Fight me) im autistic but this time it effects it in a different way. I’m often hyperfixated on things, and one thing I’ve always been hyperfixated on is my own OCs or original characters. AJR’s music reflects their story in such a way I find unique so it’s always fun to imagine little animations in my head to them. 6th: AJR is somehow always there when I need them. Like fuck dude. What do you mean you made a song about relating the concept of inertia to daily life and not being able to move on/being stuck in the past the day after I cry about being stuck in the past and also learn the concept of inertia in my physics class? It’s always so specifically on the nose for me it’s slightly terrifying in a way but you know what. We ball.

Would you ever consider making a video for “The Appeal of Tones and I”? As an Australian, it’s been an….interesting journey watching her from being a beach-side busker, to getting nationwide airplay on Triple J, to having Dance Monkey becoming a worldwide hit, then finally getting that infamous 0 from Fantano. I personally don’t like her music but I feel like it would be a good topic to cover.

Bradford sent me. This video is fantastic at explaining why people like some of this goofy band’s music as much as they do lol. Excellent video as always 😉

I love this band, I don't care if someone I know hates them. As there is always someone out there that does love them.

Great video! Personally I’m just “eh” on the Met brothers, but this actually gave me some appreciation for how they make music! In my eyes, they really aren’t the absolute worst thing to happen to music like a lot of music nerds love to clam.

AJR is purely a harmless band. Sure some of the music is absolute dogshit but I can sleep well at night knowing they don’t cause anyone to be hurt

AJR’s work is like all the ideas that pop into my head that a bit cringe and far from perfect but mean something to me in some way, but they had the courage and passion to manifest them to completion. I have to give them respect for it.

Thank you, it’s nice to have more positivity and fairness for them out on the internet! People can dislike them or not vibe with them, but the sheer amount of dogpiling and mocking and over-critical nonsense people lay on thick on these guys is insane.. I’ve literally seen a video where the reviewer criticised the song they wrote for their dying dad harshly for “lyrics that don’t make sense” when they make perfect sense.. There’s no band quite like these lovely brothers, and they’re my favourite band ever. It’s so fun to listen to their old stuff and hear them find their sound over time, let alone the incredible work they”re making now!

I’ve loved this band since they started. As someone who has adhd and anxiety, the lyrics and the beats are what have kept me with them for this long, as well as everything they say in each song and album having a reason for being there, it’s just amazing how these guys make music

I personally am a fan of AJR for their unique production and sound, the genuinely good musicality that they have, and even the 'over-production' as you call it because that's something my brain likes. The lyrics themselves are fine to me, and I don't expect them to be on the poetic level as some of my other favorite artists like Hozier or The Oh Hellos, but those down to earth experiences really hit hard at times. I'm not surprised that they aren't for everyone, not at all. But I am genuinely shocked at how much vitriolic hate they manage to get when they and their fans are literally just vibing, not really going out of their way to bother anyone. It just feels like bullying the weird kids at this point, which given the mental health issues the band has and talks about, and the fact that I've related my love for the band partly to my neurodivergence, it just puts a bad taste in my mouth. Dislike the band all you want, but I really wish people would examine exactly why they feel the need to constantly attack the band so maliciously. Just say it isn't for you because you don't like the lyrics/production/etc and move on!

Some reasons I personally love AJR are all the weird noises and high-pitched vocals! It adds character and makes their music unique. One of my favorite songs of theirs is "Joe", and that has a shit ton of funky sounds! Although the sounds in "Inertia" and "2085" at the beginning are probably my favorites. They both had me hooked instantly, which is another thing AJR is good at. I especially love it when they use a bunch of different instruments. It really stands out in their album "OK Orchestra", where they use trumpets, violins, keyboards, guitars, and the list goes on! And they know how to make them all work together perfectly. The Maybe Man truly made me appreciate their lyrics. It genuinely does show how honest they are in their feelings, as you mentioned. Some of their lyrics are just silly or cheesy, like in "Steve's Going to London", and others are sad or deep, like in "God is Really Real" and "Weak". They have made me really appreciate the lyrics in songs more than the sound itself. Some of my favorite lyrics are from the song "Maybe Man". I can relate to them, and it gets me thinking about so much more than just the music and sound. I don't think they deserve this kind of hate and no one really does! It all just depends on your type of music, so I get why people don't like them. (Oops I ranted. Sorry for that I just love AJR so fucking much lmaoo)

Massive AJR fan here!! Great video, loved the different perspectives it gave! My favourite AJR song is currently 2085, the message that life never gets less complicated and to just do it instead of wasting time thinking about it hits right at home. Also, as an aroace person, the Turning Out trilogy, and their themes of growing up, etc. being just as common than themes of love is really refreshing!

AJR is my favorite band, and it genuinely makes me really sad when people bash them for absolutely no reason. Once I saw someone call their music "soulless, corporate slop", which doesn't even make any sense. Haters aside, I love that they're not afraid to talk about things other than love, breakups, etc. They're unique, and they wholeheartedly embrace that. Some of my favorite songs by them are "Wow, I'm Not Crazy", "Inertia", and "Way Less Sad" :)

AJR's a band I would occasionally listen to when I was younger - specifically when 'Infinity' and 'I'm Ready' got released, but since I wasn't seeing their music advertised much, I did start to forget about them. it was only back in 2019 after the release of '100 Bad Days' that I started listening to their music again. A lot of the reasons that I listen to them are featured in the video but the one at 16:51 is one of the main ones - '100 Bad Days' came out when I was struggling mentally and at the time (and even now) I find the message through the upbeat rhythm and lyrics comforting. 'Karma' and 'Don't Throw Out My Legos' are two other songs I found comforting and whose lyrics helped me understand how I was feeling and feel less alone. Their music isn't typical so I kind of understand why people don't like them, but I don't think they deserve a lot of the backlash they get. They're a very talented band who, to me, just experiment and create beats that sound amazing in a weird way. It's not a bad thing to create something or be a little different and AJR's obviously found their audience. They're not for everyone, but everything's subjective, from music to art to movies etc., and everyone's allowed to choose what they like and dislike. Also, their concert's are very fun :)

i think i feel the same way about AJR as i do about similarly hated pop artists by people like me; i had to listen to some of their biggest hits ad nauseum in high school as my art teacher would play millennial pop stuff 24/7 and while i never actively enjoyed their stuff, i can't say i ever really grew sick of it despite how often i'd hear them. i remember seeing the cover art for the click during class and thinking it looked cute and looked up the album's reception out of curiosity and was a bit surprised to see that people hate their stuff. even now i still feel indifferent towards them, and i think because of that disconnect and the association of their music with some of my best experiences in high school (those being all of my art classes), i kind of secretly hope they'll come through some day with something genuinely good

"How long is this song?" "Bout two and a half minutes" "And how long did it take to make?" "bout two and a half years" I'm in my 30s, I gotta be real AJR being so open about their creative process has been very validating. I write all kinds of things, music included, but part of me always felt like if I couldn't write it out all in one go, it wasn't really properly writing something true. But after seeing these guys live... they've just put so much hard work into creating. It makes you wanna put something out there too, you know?

I've ben a fan of AJR since first hearing Bang!, but out of everything I love about AJR, my favorite thing has got to be their relatable lyrics. Sober Up, 2085, the Maybe Man, Netflix Trip, The DJ is Crying for Help, and the ending of Ok Overture are my favorite examples of this. With Sober Up being a top contender for my favorite song ever. I usually just see album reactions to AJR so this video is a welcome addition to my feed. I loved the deep dive and your explanations for everything. I hope to see more of you in the future!

I found out about AJR because of World's Smallest Violin and my first impression was that they were fine but not memorable. I looked up their YT channel and listened to Dj is crying for help and it genuinely made me tear up. I have been battling depression and anxiety disorder for years now and I found it cathartic that a song could help me release emotions without me causing physical pain to myself. From that moment onwards I became a fan. Every time I have a panic attack or depressive episode, I just listen to their songs and they help me cope. I truly get why people don't like their music. It's niche and indie. But seeing the extent of hate their music gets really make me sad about the world. That music that make sad people happy are called bad and cringe because normal (neurotypical) people don't understand them. There are some AJR songs I dont like (Thirsty, The Trick, Call my Dad) and I acknowledge that they do make some unpleasant quirky sounds but I liked the chaos of it. It reminds me constantly that being different and unappealing is not the end of the world. Weird people exist and weird music can be popular but bullies/haters will always have the loudest voice because being hateful and negative is better than amicable neutrality. Like I know this is a weird tangent on the topic but to have it blatantly pointed out that the mental issues I wholeheartedly relate to in AJR's songs are just shallow/sheltered/cringe views of what real grief/sorrow/pain feels like, makes me realize that this world never really had a place for people who think differently from the norm.

i only became a fan of their music a little while ago and when i looked them up online i was genuinely baffled how much vitriol about them there is. i still am. when i hear a song i don't like i just stop listening to it and move on with my day. you're telling me people take precious time out of their day to rant about how they hate one specific band? wouldn't they be much happier ignoring ajr and just listening to the songs they like?

I'm SO happy to see someone who appreciates Livin' on Love, as a big AJR fan I really love that song!! It's one of my favorites and I wish more people knew it existed.

Great video, couldn't have said it better myself! Perhaps in future videos, you could keep the volume on a similar level? I had to keep fiddling with the volume whenever you hopped between song and talking.

I used to be a massive AJR fan! I have autism, so sometimes the “sensory overload” would honestly be great for grounding me- sounds backwards but that’s just how it is lol. I like how honest and childish they are- I’m 23 and I can relate a lot to their struggles of being in that weird stage of growing up. I don’t like them as much anymore, but I think my favorite songs would have to be Turning Out part 1 & 2 (I haven’t listened to the new album). I really appreciate you being honest without bashing the people who genuinely enjoy their stuff. It’s not for everyone- it isn’t even for most people- but it means a lot to some who do enjoy it.

AJR is my favorite band, and I think what made me a fan of them is not just their music but the genuinness of it and how down to earth there lyrics can be or how raw their feelings are in their music. It feels like it's truly them because it is truly them. They create the whole song themselves. I was originally introduced to them when I would watch KZfaq short animations, then rediscovered them through TikTok from world's smallest violin and I've been a fan ever since.

I really love ajr. I first heard "I'm ready" because i loved sia, but then started to listening consistently in 2016 or so. I fallen in love with the band fully, the first band i wait for every drop, follow, every page, listen to all the songs theyve ever put out. But damn the last year has been so hard on me, and "The Maybe Man" made me bawl the whole first time through because it felt like everything I have been thinking and feeling connected to me to these people I have so much admiration for. I love your review, it goes over everything so well and feels so genuine and you did so good covering them thoroughly with honesty.

I gotta say I really appreciate this outsode view of AJR. I've recently made a couple of tiktoks about how I like their new album and some people went FERAL (like, telling me to end myself feral). I understand people really like them, and that some people really hate them. But I really admire your ability to pull groups together with your videos that are able to respectfully talk about it!!! You seem super cool dude and I'm excited to see more!

i wasn’t ever a huge ajr fan, but i listened to living room when it first came out and pitchfork kids was my the track that i loved the most, even joining my rotation when i shifted my music taste to heavier sounds. hearing it again in this video reminded me that even if I’m not a fan of their newer stuff that track still goes pretty hard!

I've listened to AJR for years and love almost every song because I'm a sucker for storytelling, especially through music. As someone who also loves to create and tell stories (through drawing, writing, or creating videos), AJR's music has always had a special spot in my head and the lyrics have definitely influenced my writing style in some way. The way they do music is just so different than the what most people around me listen to so I can always tell when one of their songs come on and put a smile on my face.

A friend kept playing their songs on discord when we played league with our friends back in the pandemic on late 2020. I totally fell in love with their music and felt listened. Been following since then. eternally grateful with my friend for that.

I found ajr through bang and WVS(before it blew up on tik tok) and what i enjoy about the band is that they have really unique songs and talk about topics that other artists might not even touch on I can fully understand why people might not like AJR but i feel like they get more hate than they deserve I mean disliking a band is one thing but litterally willing to fight anyone that likes them is a whole other level of crazy 💀

My college roommate would play AJR *constantly.* As a result, I have a certain loathing of overplay, but also I have a big fondness for particular songs that I did end up having grow on me.

Been listening for over 6 years now and have always felt comfort in them. Their songs had me getting through some tough times and i related to them so heavily. I love almost all their songs and they mean alot to me. Even if they arent my favorite band they are up there and are very important to me. Broken got me through some things, Worlds smallest violin had me in my feels and Karma makes me cry everytime through the sheer relatability. wonderful band they are all lovely and so full of emotions all their songs are amazing to me i love the chaos

The intro pretty much fits my experience- when I first got into their music, I didn’t realize _disliked_ they were. To each their own, but I do really like their music- their band is pretty much the only one I actively follow, and Neotheater and The Maybe Man have some of my top favorite songs. I don’t really mind that other people don’t like AJR, but it sucks when people go out of their way to be mean because I enjoy their music. Great video! It was very insightful ^^

I heard AJR on the radio in middle school and really needed their music at the time. I searched them up and then fell in love with their music from The Click. Their music is seriously what saved me in middle and high school. Not only does their music have sentimental value for me, but as they continue to release projects, we seem to grow together. Even though there's about a 5-10 year difference between me and them, their music somehom always still aligns so perfectly with the changes in my life, and obviously theirs since it's what inspires them. But yeah idk I just really liked the sound of their music, and then their lyrics helped me out. I don't understand the vitriol that so many people have for them, especially when other people express how much they mean. But yeah, I have so much love for AJR snd their music, and I hope that people can at least let those that do like them a bit of a break 😅

Love the video! Great analysis and I love the idea of these types of videos you make. I do have a problem with AJR's songs being too loud as transitions in contrast to how soft your voice is though. Keep up the good work!

Ajr is just such a fun loving group, yet they're simultaneously able to tackle some of the deeper, more pressing issues they and their fans face. I wouldn't consider myself a die-hard fan, and yet they're one of the few artists I listen to where I'll literally save the entirity of each new album they produce (rather than just picking and choosing songs here and there). I also have to give them props for the energy they bring to live venues, I don't know how anyone can dance and jump around that much for hours on end, especially while belting a high tenor chorus. Watching them in concert was a joy I hope to get to experience again.

One of my first actual concert experiences was from a web concert by AJR. The songs bring back so many good memories, and I can't help but love them.

16:14 LOOK MOM I'M IN A BEETLEBAT VIDEO

my friend showed me "break my face" in a car ride and we thought it was the funniest/stupidest thing ever. i didnt look into the band until "world's smallest violin" blew up and i started researching. i also found out that the song "bang!" that i really liked was by them. i listened to ok orchestra and then the click and then neotheater. i was scared to listen to living room because i heard it was dogwater but i decided to and honestly, i dont hate it. i joined the community about 4 months after "the dj is crying for help came out", and i kept the obsesssion until tmm came out and i absolutely love it. my favorite album by them is neotheater, and my favorite song by them, (and my favorite song ever) is "christmas in june".

AJR fans and certainly AJR themselves know that their music isn't for everyone (to put it lightly), but, as a long-time fan of theirs, I think that's kind of the point. If they make music that they really like, they have every reason to share it. And as long as they have even just a few people who also like it, they'll keep making their brand of music. This is a perfect, unbiased review of AJR. Thank you for this video!

Beetlebat, thank you for making this very high-quality video I love how you took the time to heart every single person’s comment and comment on almost every single persons comment as well. I admire how involved you are with your fans and I respect that a lot. So I just wanna say good job, I’m proud of you.

This is definitely the best way of being nice and explaining their uniqueness! Props to you for not just shitting on them haha. It doesn't matter whether you like them or not to me, music taste is an opinion. But as long as you can maintain respect for everyone (even if you don't like the music) I respect ya. Again, props to you. Great video. Got yourself a new sub

I've been a huge fan of AJR for years now and i didn't even know they were getting hate because in my eyes they are one of the best Bands ever. I have no idea what people are hating about them????

I just got into AJR and I really love their music. Sure it sounds weird but I like that! It makes them unique! Their performances are always lovely and enjoyable! They were my first concert this past June. And I love the messages like in inertia and way less sad! They’ve really helped me 🩵

i love them, i feel like their music tickles my brain and forces my feet to follow the beat, or sometimes like a lullaby, myself on a cradle as im promised better times. Stil, sad that it seems like no one in my country hears them, greetings from Chile man, great video

Great summary! The funny thing is, I agree with all of the criticism you bring up in the last section, but they're still probably my favourite band. Yes, a lot of their lyrics are quite clunky and stupid, but then every few songs there's that one line that just hits me like a truck and sticks with me for the rest of my life. And yes, Ryan's weird production completely ruins some of their songs for me. But that's fine, because in many other songs I abolutely love it. That's just the nature of experimenting and genuinely having fun with sound - sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn't. AJR have a lot of great songs, and a lot of bad songs. What they don't have is boring songs, and that's what I love about them.